1984 Mercedes 300D Gear Shift problems

Recently, a problem has developed with shifting gears in my 1984 Mercedes 300D. The shift feels too smooth as I move the gear shift knob from Park to Neutral and back. It doesn’t catch when in Park. The car will still roll when in Park and the engine will not turn over. If I move the gear shift knob from Park to Neutral and back a few times and push the car a little, the engine will eventually turn over and crank. Sometimes it cranks in Park and sometimes in Neutral. Can you tell me what’s causing this?

There is a switch that engages when the car is in Park to allow it to start. It sounds as if there is a linkage problem. Probably just worn plastic bushings.

Have your mechanic install 2 of these