auto trans shifter moves freely

[3.0V6T]

im buying a baron 88 auto and i guess the guy who had it changed the shifter. not sure why or with what. but now i guess you can grap the shifter and move it from park to first gear with no stops and without pushing the button. same thing with going from first all the way to park. just moves freely and no stops from the shifter. any ideas?? thanks

[Sittn86]

Check the linkage.

[DblTrbl]

Sounds like the button mechanism is rusted or removed.