The shift lever on a 1997 Ford Expedition gives the driver direct control over the transmission. The shift cable connects to the shift lever, which allows the driver to pull the cable back into gear, or release the pressure on it, allowing it to slide back into park. Over time, the shift lever can wear out and necessitate replacement. Anyone with basic auto-repair skills can replace the shift lever on a 1997 Ford Expedition in less than 30 minutes.
Pry the Expedition's clamshell off with the trim tool in order to expose the shift lever assembly. Set the clamshell aside. The clamshell is the semi-circular trim piece covering the top of the steering column.
Clamp the vise grips onto the shift cable to keep it from slipping down into the column. Pull the end of the shifter cable out of the shift lever assembly by hand. You may need to pull up on the vise grips to give yourself some slack.
Remove the retaining screws holding the shift lever to the column using the Phillips screwdriver.
Pull the old shift lever out and insert the new one. Install the retaining screws by hand, and tighten them with the Phillips screwdriver. Connect the shift cable to the new shift lever by hand.
Remove the vise grips from the shift cable. Reinstall the clamshell by hand.
