Loose shifting, linkage, column, tranny problem

[Montierth]

Hi all,

I have been searching to find an answer or explanation but the terms or way of describing my issue turns up wrong topic of stuff like a tranny slipping etc. Hopefully I can explain this and someone can help.

My truck is automatic with a TH350 tranny and 350 crate motor. I have an original steering column and shift linkage. I have a couple questions.

1. When I shift into drive and start driving, when I hit a bump or accidentally hit the shift bar on the column, the bar can move and shift into D2 or even can be D1 because it is pretty loose. Does that make sense? It is almost like there needs to be more tension in the shift mechanism to make it more difficult to manually shift from P to R to D. I am trying to figure out if the problem is in the shift linkage or an adjustment in the column? Or could it be something inside the tranny that is weak or loose (a detent spring?)? If anyone has any ideas or pics of a solution it would be appreciated.

2. Kind of the same line of issue. I know how to adjust the shift linkage but when I shift from P to R or N or D it is almost more of by feel. For example: I shift from P to D then give a little gas. If it goes forward then I know I'm good! If goes backwards or sits there then I know I gotta keep trying to find D! Would a new steering column be more accurate with the shifting in to R or D or is that a linkage and or Tranny issue? Is there a fix for it or is this how it works?

Thanks