1997 XL, ABS blinks, won't go in gear without unlocking the ignition, to neutral, then starting, and the brake lights stopped working, all at the same time... did the basics (fuses, bulbs). Any sugestions? Thanks...

 

Without knowing the code, your RABS sensor has probably gone out.

 

changed it, wasn't the problem.....

 

Ok try this, disconnect the cruise control sensor on top of the master cylinder. Try to start after unplugging the sensor.
See the plug at the end of the master cylinder center left:

 

This truck doesn't have it...it's a bare bones, 4.2 V6, and it has 230k, but runs great 'cept for this problem....thanks..

 

ok, lets start over. How many times in sequence is the ABS light flashing? For example: 4 flashes a break then flashes 4xs again.

 

Hey...it's 16 flashes

 

Based on the 16 ABS flashes the ABS system is ok as weird as that sounds. Now for what I think is going on is you are having a Shift Lock Actuator problem and the testing involves a volt meter and several steps.

 

have a voltmeter....I'm all ears..

 

On the connection between the Shift Lock Actuator and wiring connector check the voltage between the green/yel wire and a ground. If its less than 10 volts something is wrong with the wiring.
If its greater than 10 volts apply the brake pedal and measure the voltage between the light green wire on the Shift Lock Actuator and a ground. Again if the voltage is greater than 10 volts measure the resistance between the Shift Lock Actuator black wire and a ground. If the resistance is less than 5 ohms replace the Shift Lock Actuator.

Its #17 in the illustration of the steering column: