Patent ID: 8539851

Claim:
A modular shift device for operating the safety lock out mechanism of an automatic transmission comprising: an upper module; and a lower module; wherein said upper module is adapted for mechanical connection to said lower module and is adapted for mechanical connection to a distal end of a shifter shaft, and wherein said lower module is pivotally affixed adjacent a shift gate to a shifter support assembly affixed to an automatic transmission, and wherein said lower module connects to a moveable gear linkage for shifting gears; wherein said lower module has a lower body with a moveable pin extending therefrom that is capable of mechanically cooperating with said shift gate to prevent unwanted engagement of said gears; wherein said lower body has a depressable plunger recessed within a bore formed there through said lower body, and a compression spring constrained between a shoulder on said bore and a shoulder on said plunger, and wherein said moveable pin resides on said plunger; wherein said plunger has a rod extending normally therefrom at least one side that protrudes through at least one oblong slot in said lower body; and wherein said upper module is comprised of an upper body that tiltably resides in a mounting bracket that is affixed to said lower body, and wherein said upper module has at least one arm having a first end pivotally affixed to said upper body and a second end with an angled section formed thereon that resides in contact with said rod outside of said lower body.