Air leak related to auto shift lever?

[Maj]

Hi guys,

I'm looking for info on an air leak related to the auto shift lever on my 5.0 1984 MGM, can anyone advise me please?

When it's in Drive or O/D and I'm rolling there is an air leak type hissing noise that comes from around the steering column and is related to the shift lever because I can almost get the noise to go away if I push the lever towards the dash. Unfortunately the lever is worn and just falls back if I let go and the hiss returns

Is this a common fault? I'm thinking along the lines of maybe a failed 'O' ring somewhere in the lever mechanics?

Thanks in advance fellow GMNers :worship:

[1980c10]

This is a thread on cvn. Related just to th hissing dash.

http://www.crownvic.net/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1452538#Post1452538

[86VickyLX]

That's the auto emergancy brake release. It is used so when you shift the car in any forward gear with that brake engaged, it will pop out so you don't burn up your e brake. It is a little white thing under the steering column with a vacuum line coming out of it. It works with the shifter. Now what you're hearing is a vacuum leak. When they get old, they start to leak. It tends to get annoying so you have two choices, replace the auto release (module???), or unplug it and plug the vacuum line. It won't hurt your car, just remember that you need to manually release the emergancy brake via the lever. Replacing the auto release will require you to line the new one up properly with the shift indicator so it releases when it is supposed to. I hope this helps mang.

[gadget73]

What they said. Disconnect it or replace it, your choice.

[Maj]

Great stuff, thanks guys. Just what I needed. I'll look into repairing it while I'm messing about under the dash fitting the new stereo