When replacing my motor mounts my Haynes manual says on automatic cars to disconnect the shift linkage. Is this necessary? If so, how do I go about doing this? Thanks!
Yes, you do, and disconnect the throttle too. If I remember correctly one or both linkages have a bracket on the back of the block through which the cables pass, so check there as well. In order to get the shift linkage off the TB lever, you have to pull out the cotter pin that holds the linkage in the TB if it has been retrofitted under warranty. If it hasn't, it should pull right out the bottom of the rubber grommet. While you're at it, pay your local Ford dealer a small amount of money to get the bronze bushing/cotter pin retrofit to keep that linkage from coming off in the future and toasting your AOD. Good luck.