In a message dated 98-04-10 11:05:42 EDT, craddock@DVWS01.CAHWNET.GOV writes:

<< My van has been shifting smoothly, no abnormal noises.  I tried to
downshift
 from 3rd to 2nd and it wouldn't go in to gear.  With some force, I got it
back
 into 3rd and made it to my driveway(1/2 mile).  After about 5 minutes I was
 able to get into 1st to park, moved about 10 feet and grinding sound started.
 I immediately shut it down.  Now, The stick points toward 3rd gear in
neutral.
 The stick can be moved over between 1st and 2nd, but only appears willing to
go
 into reverse.  I was able to push the van into the garage, but it moved like
it
 was in gear.  Any idea what to look for?
  >>

shift coupling.