Does my 2000 Polaris explorer 4x4 have to be in neutral in order for the key to be turned to the on position?

 

None of mine ever had to be in neutral to just turn the key.

 

Obviously that was posted in the wrong spot.

 

Ok, because i tried about 15 things to try and turn ignition and nothing worked or works

 

From the owners manual. Says to put it in neutral. I know I've started mine in gear before, and never pushed it to a level spot.

 

My shifter is stuck in high, and i lost my key. I guess thats why nothing that i tried wants to turn ignition to on position.

 

Im thinking about buying a 2000 polaris explorer 400 for only $400. Thing is, he says it doesnt change gears, Is it worth it to buy {could a simple guy fix it] , could I bypass it somehow? never looked at it yet. but online ad looks great, except for the one thing.