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Usually the problem is the other way where it will not let you turn the key off fully when the car is in park.
Try disconnecting that cable at the column and make sure the shifter still actually moves without the column being connected at all. Watch the cable and make sure it's actually being pulled down when you shift into gear
With the cable still off, turn the key to the run position (don't start the car) and see if you can move the lever on the column downward by hand.
When you try to move the shifter it tries to pull that other cable down at the same time, turning the lever on the column. If the key is in the off position it won't let the column turn and therefor the shifter can't move.
The key also pushes a rod in the column that runs the actual starter/run switch that is located down near the middle of the column, that's frequently where/why the rack in the image breaks.
Also, that switch you circled is the for the key buzzer, when the key is inserted in the lock and the door is opened, this causes the warning buzzer to buzz
thank you for your answers,
I solved all my steering and gearbox problems thanks to you.
my corvette : 74, on the last photo was an example that I found on the net of a GM column.
Here is mine in full reassembly. I hurry I pass the technical control Tuesday. I only have the wealth to adjust to lower the CO rate and after that I will be able to drive.
my column steering:
Hi Jim,
I'm wondering if you have any advice to get the lever on the steering column (that connects to the transmission) to stop sticking short of the full upright position? I've tried a few lubricants, but it still occasionally returns short of the full upright position when I turn the car off, thus not being able to extract the key until I pop the hood and manually move the lever.
I hope you are still active on this forum. Your posts are GREAT!
