One problem related to manual transmission shift pattern indicator has been reported for the 1997 Ford Expedition. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Gear shift cable broke when shifting from reverse to drive. Car was stopped on a flat surface. No excessive force. No binding. Cable showed no evidence of deformation. Cable strands separated unevenly but stayed together. Appeared to be a material defect combined with probable improper factory installation (torque). Shift cable part number is xl3z7e395ab. Local Ford service department acknowledged this has occurred on other Ford vehicles brought in for service.