Steering Column Repair: tilt steering column on 93 GMC Safari Van, gmc safari, safari van

Question
Hi Jay, Thanks for taking the time to help!  I got into my van this morning and started it up.  It went into reverse ok but when I tried to put it into drive it wouldnt go.  I wiggled the lever a little and something popped loose.  After that I could put it into drive. I pulled foreward and then backed into my driveway and turned it off.  Later when I went to start it The key turned freely with no spring tension on it, and would not activate the starter.  I went to napa and got an ignition key assembly.  After putting it in the key still turns freely and doesn't start the vehicle.
sorry this was so long but I wanted to give you as much info as possible.  I did use a puller and have the tool for the lock plate.  Is there a spring somewhere deeper inside the column? please Help.  Thank you

                                sincerely,
                                      Kevin

Answer
Hello Kevin,
It sounds like the sector gear or actuator rack have either become misaligned or simply broke. The link below is to the image I think will help you find what you are looking for. You intially experienced the ignition actuator rod becoming misaligned with the shift bowl plate where there are notches for it's position. It wouldn't go from neutral to drive because the actuator rod wedge finger was engaged with the notch. And then, when you wiggled it, you felt the actuator rack coming off of the actuator rod. You will notice the the large D shape of the rack where it contacts the actuator rod. The actuator rod simply catches the D by a little nub and the alignment has very little room to spare. At any rate, you should find this diagram very helpful.

http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/1797/diagram19ae.jpg

Check the condition of the sector gear and rack. Most problems "originate" from there. But sometimes additional damage can occur at the shift bowl area of the actuator rod. Make sure you check the alignment on it before you reassemble it completely.

If I can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact me again. I appreciate any comments and feedback you may want to leave.
Have a great day!
-Jay