Reverse lights not working from N to R

[Ranger Mark]

'96 ranger, 3.0, 4x2 extended cab, 4r44e.

Problem I'm having is the reverse lights come on when shifting from P to R, but don't come on when shifting from N to R. They did work a month ago. Anyone seen this before?

 

[SenorNoob]

Sounds like the transmission range switch is slightly misaligned or starting to go out. Does slightly moving the shifter make them come on?

 

[Dirtman]

Yup sounds like the digital range sensor is fubar.

 

[RonD]

DTR sensor seen here: https://www.explorerforum.com/forums/attachments/f8f8c2cd-27c0-4287-b1f2-6c6d1db858b0-png.158895/

It has 2 slotted holes so it can be adjusted to exactly match P R N D 2 1

This tells computer what "gear" driver selected
It also has two mechanical contacts inside, one for starter motor activation(P,N), and one for Reverse lights(R)


BUT...........................it may not be DTR sensor, it could be the column shifter is getting loose, a very common issue on all Ford trucks with column shifters
You can usually feel that the shifter has some play in the cable, when you move it

Google: ford ranger loose column shifter

Loads of info on how to fix that, can just be 2 loose screws under the dash

 

[SenorNoob]

I didn't even think about the linkage. Not used to working on automatics...