Well I've determined there is nothing wrong with the "shifter" per say....it's related to the ignition switch. Also you must have good battery charge to activate the solenoid in the shift lock mechanism...popping out the little plastic cap beneath the ign switch and pushing up with a small screwdriver. Releases the key plus shift lever then too works fine until you try to put the key all the way off.
Not exactly sure of the chain of events for normal function but possibly he ign switch or related linkage is the answer...hope someone can shed a bit more light on this. Thanks!
