Shift Cable: Escape

2001 Mercury Villager BaseSECTION Escape
  1. Remove upper and lower steering column shrouds. Place a .023" (0.6 mm) feeler gauge between range selector lever and lever detent. Place range selector lever in "D" position. Hang a 3 lb. (1.4 kg) weight from range select lever.
  2. Disconnect shift cable from shift control lever. Rotate shift control lever clockwise to full stop, and then rotate lever 2 detents counterclockwise to "D" position. Depress 2 locking tab on adjustment lock cylinder and rotate lock cylinder counterclockwise.
  3. Loosen shift cable adjuster, and connect cable to shift control lever. Tighten shift cable adjuster. Remove feeler gauge. Reinstall steering column shrouds.
  4. Check for park gear engagement. Start engine and ensure indicated gear positions match transmission response. Verify vehicle only starts in "P" and "N" positions, and back-up lights operate. If operation is not okay, check transmission range sensor adjustment. See TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR .
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.