its a 2.3 auto.. the backup lights dont come on and it just wont sync into reverse.. but all the other gears are fine.. and the fluids cherry red.. and the guy i got the car of off has relaced 3 trannys in it.. im thinking maybe somthin eliectrical or adjusting?... anyone have a clue also the car will not start inless i jump the selanoid... could thies 2 have somthin in commen?

 

Check the transmission linkage adjustment. Put the car up on jack stands. Loosen the linkage adjustment nut. Push the transmission shift lever to the reverse position and hold it there while tightening the nut. Put the car back on the ground and try it. See if all of the shift lever positions appear normal. USE CAUTION GETTING UNDER THE CAR. IF YOU CANNOT SUPPORT IT PROPERLY, DO NOT DO IT.

 

Just in case it was not obvious, be sure that the shift lever is in the R position when making the above adjustment.

 

Make sure the trans is full of fluid. If it cant engage or engages really harshly, thats usually a low fluid level indicator. If thats not it, try adjusting the linkage like Dave said. If that doesnt work, looks like you might be buying a new trans or getting this one rebuilt.
-P.
PS: You could just do a 5spd conversion, it might actually be cheaper than buying a new trans or getting one rebuilt.

 

Well, after I reread the message, I was still not happy with it. What I meant to say is put the shift lever in the reverse position (R), then loosen the nut and move the shift linkage rod on the transmission to where the transmission would be in reverse. Push it into the Park position then pull it back one notch. That should be reverse. Tighten the rod linkage nut. Then check to see if the shift lever looks and feels like it is going into park, reverse, nuetral etc. If it looks OK, put the car down and try it.