The car should start by jumping the starter solenoid with a screwdriver

Turns out dealing with this switch is a real pain. I recently had this problem on a 94. No crank without holding the shifter in just the right position to allow contact in the switch.

I had to remove the entire shifter assembly from the car, disconnecting one end of the tranny linkage underneath. I had to fight with the carpet and console surround on the passenger side to get to the wire connections. Once out it was obvious the switch itself is not easy to deal with as it is surrounded by a metal box. I understand you have to drive the shifter pivot shaft out to remove the box and gain access to the switch. From there it is a delicate task to remove the switch without breaking something.

Luckily I had a working parts car on hand so I just swapped out the entire assembly and replace a couple of linkage bushings and all set. I have a reparable unit now in case (when) one of the two cars fails again.

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89 240 wagon, 94 940, 215K, 94 940, 141K