Steering Column Repair: Chevy Blazer will not shift into park, s10 blazer, chevy blazer

Question
I have a 1996 S10 Blazer (T10) 4x4, 2DR, A/T, 4.3. The shifter suddenly will not return to the PARK position. I can move freely through R-N-OD-D-2-1, but the shifter will not return to the P position. I don't feel it is a problem with the transmission because I can place it into park by moving the lever at the transmission, and the shifter will then also reflect the correct status. Once in park, attempting to shift into gear is difficult making me think that a safety lever or detente is not working correctly (after having this problem once, and being away from home, I have since just left it in N when parked and the e-brake on). The transmission behaves normally and will start in P or N (obviously N). I'm wondering, before dropping the kick panel, dash and steering column, if there is anything common to look for, if this is all mechanical and not electrical (solenoid/) or ?

Thanks,
Grover

Answer
Hello Grover,
You are correct, it's the detent misaligned. You will need to drop the column to get at it. Be sure to disconnect the linkage when you do or risk bending something and be back at square one when you put it back together.
Hope that helps,
Have a great day!
-Jay