Going from park to drive, I have a lot of play. Also, I can not shift into 1st gear/low at all. this is an automatic. BTW this is a 2000 f150 4x4, 5.4L.

 

i have alot of play to, i believe it normal not sure about your other issue tho

 

You may be have a linkage/ cable issue. See if you can crawl underneath and look at the other end on the trans. Maybe even watch somebody move it. It maybe be an obstruction, cable adjustment or just a new cable.

 

There's a roll pin in the shifter where it meets the column. Sure your play is not there? I have seen the shifter break as a result.

 

Okay, it ended up being the bracket under the dash that holds the shifter cable. There are two Torx head screws that had become very loose. Easy fix, just had to use a T20 and 1/4" drive rachet with a 3" extension and tighten them up. Shifts great now! Thanks to all for the help.

 

You have first gear, the shifter just doesn't lock into 1st/low gear. Mine is the same way.