My 95 explorer starts fine, but I have to rotate the ignition after starting in order to free the shifter and get into gear. I tried replacing the ignition . To no avail . What would keep it from working properly? Thanks for any help I can get .

Are you depressing the brake pedal for 5 seconds, before trying to move the gear selector? This disengages the interlock (check adjustment) and allows the gear selector to move. If the problem persists, you may need to adjust or replace the neutral safety switch or Transmission Range Sensor (TRS).

Thank you txgreasemonkey I'll look into it. Just makes no sense to me that turning key 1/8 inch lets it go into gear.. where would I look for the trs?

It's located on the transmission. See if this makes sense in your situation, first.

How-to Remove and Install a Transmission Range Sensor (TRS)

The Neutral Safety Switch is part of the TRS.


REMOVAL:

1. Place gear selector in Neutral.
2. Disconnect negative battery cable.
3. Remove air cleaner and air cleaner outlet tube.
4. Disconnect electrical connector to the Transmission Range Sensor (TRS).
5. Remove retaining nut (13mm) and control lever from transaxle. Use a large adjustable wrench or suitable wedge, to prevent the control lever (i.e., shaft coming out of the transaxle) from rotating (very important).
6. Remove both TRS mounting bolts (8mm).
7. Remove TRS.

INSTALLATION:
1. Clean and lubricate the shaft coming out of the transaxle.
2. Align the Neutral alignment marks on TRS, using a pair of needle nose pliers. This accomplishes the same thing that the Alignment Tool T92P-70010-AH does; i.e., lining up the two slots on the TRS wheel with the “V” index mark on the edge of the TRS.
3. Install the TRS, ensuring it is fully seated on the shaft, and loosely install both mounting bolts.
4. Verify alignment.
3. Tighten TRS mounting bolts 9-12 Nm (80-106 inch-lbs.) and remove tool, if used.
4. Connect electrical connector to TRS.
5. Install control lever--tighten retaining nut 11-16 Nm (98-141 inch-lbs.). Use a large adjustable wrench, to prevent the control lever from rotating.
6. Install air cleaner outlet tube and air cleaner.
7. Connect negative battery cable.
8. Check for proper operation with parking brake control engaged. The engine should start only in Park or Neutral.

Also I noticed today when I'm pushing brake down, there is heavy air sound. Could it have something to do with master cylinder or assist? Brake light stays on if I don't use toe to pull the pedal up.don't know if this would relate to the sending unit telling shift its in park or not.. .

Sounds like there may be a leak with the power brake booster--check connections. If the problem persists, replace the booster. Regarding the brake light staying on, try adjusting the brake light switch.