addition to detent plate replacement

[trim code 76]

Ray,
I have another addition I would like you to make to the website. With regards to Alexanders directions on replacing the detent plate (by the way, they are very helpful). I replaced my plate and still had to lift up on my lever to start the car, not as bad as before though. The lever is very tight now and holds very well. Richard recommended adjusting the neutral safety switch on the underside of the steering column. There were two screws to remove and then you slide it one way or the other until you can start it without lifting on the lever. Worked perfectly for me. I think this would be a helpful addition for all to know about and have it all in one location for the next guy (yikes...or gal, sorry Coral!) that has to do this. Thanks old great one!
Greg

[YellowRose]

addition to detent plate replacement

Thanks, Greg and Richard!

Thanks for this information because I did not know about this neutral safety switch! I probably need to have that adjusted when I get Rose out of the shop. I am sure JohnG will come along and grab this jewel of information and put it in the TRL. Unfortunately, I cannot fix the webpage the detent instructions are on because I do not have full access to the server. But John can put it in the TRL for all to see.

[bird 60]

My Detent Plate will have to be replaced one day, although it's not too bad. However, I always start my Bird in Neutral. The only time I put it in Park is when I'm parked on a slope. With the Emergency break applied I put it in Neutral to start. I find it to be a lot smoother to put in Reverse or the forward Gear than from Park.

Chris....From the Land of OZ.

[Anders]

Richard recommended adjusting the neutral safety switch on the underside of the steering column. There were two screws to remove and then you slide it one way or the other until you can start it without lifting on the lever.

Now this was news to me.
Where is these screws located? I asume it is not the 2 steering collumn screws. I adjust those in order to get the horn working. Pictures perhaps?

[YellowRose]

addition to detent plate replacement

Richard posted this in a thread below this about the detent plate. It is definatly NOT those two locking bolts that secure the steering wheel.

Hey Greg,
Sounds like your neutral switch maybe out of adjustment.
If you put your head in the floor board under the steering wheel just below the dash you will see the neutral safety switch on the steering column. Loosen the screws and move it one way try it. If that don't work loosen it and move it the other way. HAVE YOUR FOOT ON THE BRAKE WHEN TRYING TO START HER! Adjust till you get it right. It should not start in gear!
Richard D. Hord

[simplyconnected]

Two examples of Neutral Switches (for floor shift and for column):


This type is a harness assembly (with a switch)



This one is just a switch.


Both types have adjustments.
Hope this helps. - Dave Dare