We installed a Lokar automatic shifter in a project not long ago and after bolting it in place, we were excited to try it out and see how our new TCI trans felt. Everything worked properly and we were happy to cross another project off the list and move on to the next one but when we started cleaning parts and tools we were reminded of the park/neutral safety switch feature of the shifter.
Most hot rodders probably don’t think too much about it, but the park/neutral switch is a very important safety feature. This simple switch will keep the car from starting while in a drive gear. If you have a manual shift, you should definitely have a micro-switch on the clutch pedal or shift linkage that will prevent the engine from turning over without the clutch engaged.
Lokar supplies each of their shifters with a park/neutral switch that is simple to adjust and set. The shifter has a switch that is closed while in park and neutral. When the shifter is pulled into a drive position, the switch opens. We routed the switched 12 volt wire that engages the starter from the ignition switch through the safety switch, then to the starter.
To adjust the switch, Lokar provides an aluminum alignment plug. Start by loosening the banana bracket on the passenger side of the shifter then put the shifter into reverse. Next, remove the park/neutral switch and replace it with the aluminum plug. You may need to adjust the banana bracket a little to get the plug to go in correctly. Once the plug seats, tighten the bracket, remove the plug and install the switch and wiring.This is a feature that won’t make your car faster, but it certainly will help if you ever crank the engine with the trans in gear. And trust us, it can and will happen.