1998 Ford Ranger FX4, 3.0L Automatic with around 180k. My truck will only reverse for a few feet and then the truck rocks to a halt(much like it would if slammed in park). I first thought maybe it was a rear-end or parking brake issue, but am now thinking that the parking pawl is engaging in reverse. Lately the truck will also roll on occasion in park with a clicking sound(maybe the parking pawl not fully engaged). Assuming the pawl IS to blame, is there an adjustment or repair that does not require a full on tranny rebuild? Any advise would be appreciated.

P.S.: if it matters, my truck is now a two wheel drive as I replaced the dash wiring harness and was unable to find one from a 4X4 in time. This issue predates the re-wiring.

I'm gonna say your shift cable going to the trans OR the PRND21 cable (this could lead you to believe you are fully in a gear when in fact you are not) is stretched or out of adjustment.

Replace which ever one is bad. Test the trans cable by shifting all the way down to 1 manual and see if your in 1. if your only in 2 it means the cable is stretched. The PRND21 cable is just something you can look at (although usually that one just breaks because its a thin peice of string).

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2011 Ranger XL Extended cab, 2x4, 2.3 L Duratec, Automatic, Mis-colored Leer camper shell, Ultragauge, LED plate bulbs, DDM "cree" reverse lights. Staying as stock as possible

Most likely this is the issue but I would also keep in mind that you might have something weird going on inside the Transfer case too..

Do you still have the front driveshaft connected?? And do you have automatic locking hubs?? I ask because ,I had a friend that owned a old International Scout that had automatic Warn hubs that sometimes would lockup in reverse causing the Scout to "Rock to a stop" ! Logic would tell you that it shouldn't matter if the hubs lock in reverse, but it did, somehow !

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2011 Ranger XLT 2x4,4.0 SOHC, 5 Speed Auto, 3.55 Rear. Oxford White.

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

Torque it down till it breaks off, then back it off 1/4 turn.