alright i ended up having to pull that rod out, got everything together and my shifter will only go down to neutral, did the rod not engage?

 

There is a specific channel the parking sprag must go in.
Did you put the linkages back on correctly and make sure the linkage post was on the correct detent on the rooster comb before you hooked it up?

Also is there a CEL for the neutral safety switch malfunctioning? That's one of the sensors your supposed to remove when you pull the VB out.

 

i got the VB dropped again and the rod slid right out so i guess thats the prob, the comb is working correctly........should the rod click into place or what?

 

Here's what i did straight from the FSM. I highlighted the really important stuff in red:

1) Check condition of O-ring seals on valve body
harness connector (Fig. 322). Replace seals on connector
body if cut or worn.
(2) Check condition of manual lever shaft seal in
transmission case. Replace seal if lip is cut or worn.
Install new seal with 15/16 deep well socket (Fig.
323).
(3) Check condition of seals on accumulator piston
(Fig. 324). Install new piston seals, if necessary.
(4) Place valve body manual lever in low (1 position)
so ball on park lock rod will be easier to install
in sprag.
(5) Lubricate shaft of manual lever with petroleum
jelly. This will ease inserting shaft through seal in
case.
(6) Lubricate seal rings on valve body harness connector
with petroleum jelly.
(7) Position valve body in case and work end of
park lock rod into and through pawl sprag. Turn propeller
shaft to align sprag and park lock teeth if necessary.
The rod will click as it enters pawl. Move rod
to check engagement.