You have an open circuit between your brake light switch and the shift lever interlock. The interlock must get a signal from the brake lights to unlock the shifter when the engine is running. When the engine is not running you can shift into neutral and start the engine.

__________________
89 Ranger 4x4, 2.9 , s/cab -- it's gone
99 Ranger 4x4, 4.0 OHV, s/cab, off road package, 4.10 ltd slip, auto trans, LT215/85R16 ATs, Myer 6.5 plow
2010 Ranger 4x4, 4.0 sohc, 3.73 open, auto, s/cab, P255/70R16 RTs summer, P245/75R16 ATs winter.