Cadillac Repair: Sloppy gear selecter, 1984 Eldorado, full size cars, neutral safety switch

Question
My mechanic (garage mechanic who's worked on my cars for years) said he has 'seen' this a lot before and it's a fairly common problem, but he isn't sure if there are still parts available to fix this. (he thinks it's bushing problems). Example: To shift into D I have to shift all the way to 1 and then back up to engage into D. I also have to shift below R and back up to get it to 'catch' into reverse. I've also had issues with not being solidly into D and have gotten torque converter codes and the cruise won't always engage. He also said he thought this was a fairly common problem with the FWD GM full size cars from 79-85.

After searching online all I could find was info on adjusting the neutral safety switch.

Is his recollection of this being a bushing issue correct, and if so, are the parts still easily available?  

Answer
Hello,

It sounds more like a broken shift tube in the steering column. The only way I could tell you to get parts would be get a used steering column from 79-85 Toronado, Riviera or Eldo. Then the components from your column and the used column would need to be swapped. At the same time the 4 bolts at the bottom of the column can be tightened so the column does not become loose (Very Common).

Very few out there know how to rebuild steering columns, it really is an art. I don't do them any longer, but I know people that still do.

Rob

http://www.autotheftexpert.com