Overdrive Switch Doesn't Work 89 240

[gia]

Searched for this and found the same question but not the answer......

89 240sx Automatic - Overdrive button only works if I hold the button in. It clicks when I press the button and the light comes on and off but the button doesn't stay in so it's always OFF. I've been having to hold it in while on the freeway and my thumb is getting numb

Assuming it's a loose connection with the switch but cannot see how to get inside the shifter to see what's going on in there (if that's where I'm supposed to check it). I see screws on the shifter but it appears to be one piece? My mechanic said I have to take it to a transmission shop which seems a little extreme.

Would there be any problems taping the button down until the issue is solved?

Thanks!

[p00t]

just fix the switch, theres gotta be a way in there!!!

you can tape it but.... well... its ghetto.

[gia]

If I could get in I would fix it and wouldn't have posted this request

It's one solid piece with a screw on the dash side that opens nothing.

The tape would be a temporary remedy until this puzzle is solved. I'd like to avoid going to a transmission shop as suggested if there's a way.

Anyone else?

[NISTECH]

the detent in the button has gone bad. you need to replace the whole shift lever the button does not come seperatly. you can remove the whole shift lever but you need to remove the terminals from the connector at the rear of the shifter assembly to do so. its easiest to take the whole shift assembly out of the car and do it on a work bench. if you decide to try to dissasemble it once you remove the screw from the lever as you lift the lever up an inch or so be ready to catch the park release button and its spring. when going back together you need to puch the button in before sliding the lever back down on the shaft. the O/D button should just pop out if you use a pocket screwdriver to pry it out. but it is not designed to be removed and replaced independantly of the shift lever. so it would be pointless to remove it since the detent in the switch cant be repaired.

[drjohn]

The switch is replaceable. The 2 screws that are in the center hold the shifter on. On the drivers side of the top screw is a hole with a small phillips in it . Remove this screw and take a small blade pocket screw driver and pry the switch out. It has a couple of metal tabs that snap into the shifter handle to supply power to the switch.

[gia]

Thank you for the responses!