Confused- '68 Galaxie falls into reverse!!

goonie85 · 07-06-2009, 10:45 PM

I have recently acquired a 1968 4 dr Galaxie 500 (unsure of the engine size right now, will have to double check). My problem is that when it idles, it will often fall into reverse (which is quite dangerous at an intersection!). I've never come across this problem with another car, but someone told me it can be common for some older cars. HOW DO I FIX IT? Aside from a brand new engine/tranny which is out of the question.

Anyone else have/ had this problem? Enlighten me!

428 INTERCEPTOR · 07-07-2009, 06:22 AM

This has been a real problem on several Fords through the years. It's not really the tranny's fault as much as the cars linkages and selector mechanism.

I assume your car is a column shifter?

schmitzzac · 07-07-2009, 06:32 AM

I have this problem as well. I also have a column shifter. Is there any way to adjust the shift linkage to get a better mesh of the gear selection? It says nothing about adjustments except for band tightening in the Chilton books. I am thinking maybe a rod is over or under adjusted somewhere?

bertha66 · 07-07-2009, 09:40 AM

If I remember right, this was a problem back when these cars were new and may have been recalled for. Problem is in the column part of the shifter, where the shifter locks is the selected gear. Sorry I do not know how to repair it.

goonie85 · 07-08-2009, 08:16 AM

Yes, it is a column shifter. Any help on fixing this, or if anyone knows of a manual that outlines a fix (can't find one) would be so much appreciated. My husband pretty much won't let me drive it if I can't figure out how to fix it. Safety reasons and all. And it so flippin' nice and I really want to drive it!!! HELP ME....