I notice that my engine misses at all engine speeds (including at idle). I recently discovered that when I unplug my air mass meter electrical connection, it idles great (does not miss), but when I give it any gas, it dies instantly. Does this mean anything??? Could my knock sensor be the problem (it feels like the timing is off)? I recently replaced plugs, wires, dist & rotor, coil, fuel filter and air filter, but the problem remains.

Here is the bonus question.....
What is the deal with my auto trans shifter. When accelerating or decelerating at speeds greater that 30mph, my trans shifter rattles like crazy. The rattling goes away if I push the shifter up towards neutral, or down towards 2nd gear (but not into it). Also, when in Reverse, I have to push the shifter down towards neutral (but not into it) for the reverse lights to go on. Could I need an adjustment to my trans shifter?? I just took a long trip and it was driving me crazy!!!

Thanks