I am thinking about buying an 02 Ranger automatic, but the shift lever is very sloppy hard two get it in the proper position to drive, anybody know what to fix might be for that or what the problem is? Thank you

 

if you follow the shift cable from the firewall up towards the column, youll see a bracket with 3 or 4 bolts holding it (can't remember). more than likely, a few of those are loose causing that issue. couldn't get a friends sisters explorer into park a while ago and it was that. sucks getting bolts back into it if they're fallen off though lol

 

It is a common issue on Ford trucks, not just Rangers

Google: ford shift lever repair

Some good videos and write ups with pictures are available
It can be as simple as tightening 2 screws