Steering column (not going in park) problem
 

I have reviewed several other posts regarding this problem and have not found, or understood a solution. My 71' C20 with 350 transmission will not go into park. (Hopefully my photo downloaded.) If I spread apart the two metal pieces the arrow is pointing to it will go into park. Is there a spring missing or something broke or need adjusted.

Re: Steering column (not going in park) problem
 

There are springs in the bottom of the column that push those two plates together. It is common to have the inner components to seize due to old grease and rust. It sounds like you're able to move the plates apart externally, so maybe it isn't a binding issue. When you pull back on the shifter lever, the lower of the two plates in your photo should move away from the upper plate. If it does not, then maybe the tip of the shifter lever broke off.

Re: Steering column (not going in park) problem
 

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Before you spend a lot of time trying to figure it out, try spraying some PB Blaster or other GOOD penetrating oil into the opening around the shift lever, where it goes into the column. Be sure it is in Neutral and the wheels are blocked. Stick the nozzle into the small open areas around the lever and give it good spray. Then pull the lever back toward you and push it down toward the dash, Do this 3 or 4 times and see if it loosens up. The lever should move up and down a couple of inches. Spray the column at the bottom under the hood too. Let us know if that makes any difference. If not, then check the end of the shifter as pj mentioned. There should also be a plastic bushing on the end of the shifter just above the ball. If it is not there the lever will be sloppy.

If you have a nice floor mat or carpet put a piece of plastic or other protection under the work area and under the full length of the interior column.

LockDoc

Re: Steering column (not going in park) problem
 

X2 on what Lock Doc said. A lot of columns fixed with a good oiling!

Re: Steering column (not going in park) problem
 

Also make sure that the pin the shift lever pivots on is in good shape and in the right position, i.e., not falling out.