Q: How to adjust and replace the Neutral Safety Switch in Chevrolet C1500 and K1500?
A: To adjust the shift lever switch for 1994 and earlier models, place the car in neutral (N) and move the switch housing all the way to the right towards low (L) gear position, then shift it into park (P) for proper adjustment. To replace it, place selector lever in neutral, unplug electrical connectors, spread tangs on housing and remove switch. Line up the actuator on the switch and hole in shift tube; then get rear part of switch situated into cutout of lower jacket while pushing down front until two tangs go under; and finally move shift lever to park. Connect electrical connectors. In order to replace or adjust this switch on 1995 or newer models firmly apply parking brake then put selector in neutral position. Pry cable off trans shift lever ball stud, take nut off holding shifter on shaft, remove lever. Disconnect electrical connector, remove mounting bolts and slide off the switch from shaft. If necessary lightly file end of shaft. When installing a new switch with shaft still at neutral align flats of the switch with flats on shaft and lower it onto it before putting in bolts. Adjust its alignment by moving as required. Reinstalling shift lever and cable, checking starting in park and neutral first then further adjusting if necessary by slackening mount bolts a bit while turning the switch so that it works properly.
Q: What is the purpose of the starter safety switch used on Chevrolet C1500 and K1500?
A: Either a clutch interlock switch (manual transmission-equipped models) or a neutral safety switch (automatic transmission equipped models) is used for the neutral safety switch on these models. The engine won't crank if it's fitted with a clutch interlock switch unless the clutch is pressed. An engine with neutral safety switch can not be cranked unless the gear selector is in either park or neutral. In case of an automatic transmission vehicle, try to start it up while changing gears. It should only crank in either neutral or park. If however it starts when on any other gear then its' neutral safety switch might be faulty or need adjustment. When this happens, locate and place the shift lever in "neutral" if your car has a manual transmission. The engine will only crank when the pedal is depressed. If it cranks before you press down the pedal, this switch located near the top of the clutch pedal arm may be defective. For automatic transmissions make sure that the steering column lock allows the key to go into Lock position only when shifter lever is put on Park position. The ignition key should come out only in Lock position.