column shifter

2000 ford ranger, Recently I found a odd little part on the floorboard of my truck. It a steel rod about 1.25" long, about 3/16 dia with a knurled end. At the same time the column shifter started acting funny, I have a hard time locating drive and it just seems loose, also you can now change gears and take it out of park without pulling the shifter toward you. I know this isn't correct. Ive removed the plastic covers but cant figure out where this little part goes. Any ideas? A part diagram of the column would be helpful but I cant locate one online.