Transmission shifter

Sounds like your having some kinda binding problem.What trans is it?C-6,C-4,FMX?I don't think it matters if its a floor or column lever.The shift rod may be wrong.You should be able to move the lever easily with the rod off at trans.If its tough to move you have a problem inside the trans at the valvebody were the lever engages the main shift valve.First find out if its a shifter problem or inside the trans,see how the shifter moves with the shift rod disconnected,should be smooth.

I had a similar problem with an older Ford product when I changed from a three speed to an automatic. The geometry between the column shift and the trans was different. I could either have park, reverse, nuetral or first, second, third. Couldn't have them all. I tried a universal adjustable linkage and finally gave up and put in a flor shifter with console. But I would try the above recommendation before tearing anything out. Here is one more thing to try. Disconnect the linkage at the trans. Measure the distance of the throw from park to first. Measure the same distance on the floor shift lever. If they are diffenent, you have found your problem and just maybe there really is such a thing as a columns hift shaft versus the floor shift shaft. Good luck.