I think it might be that, The shifter works after I removed the shift interlock cable (looks like a bicycle wire) so it's in that area at least. Either the interlock itself or the terminals on the switch.
Ever had the key get stuck in the ignition? It works fine and turns the car on, it can go into accessory. But the key won't come out. Its not the ignition cyclinder. Tried two no ones and nada