Steering Column Repair: gm steering, rubber grommets, floor shift

Question
QUESTION: i have a 1991 s-10 p/u that has trouble when shifting to reverse the back up lights don't stay on. the gear selector seems to have alot of play in it how can i adjust it

ANSWER: Hi Ed:
Is it a standard shift or automatic, column or floor shift?

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QUESTION: it is a column shift, automatic

Answer
Hi Ed:
Thanks for the clarification.  
Most of the time the play comes from the linkage between the column and the transmission (under the hood and under the truck).  There are linkage rods with rubber grommets and holes that wear out allowing the shafts to move freely rather than pivoting properly.  It is very unlikely that the problem is within the column.  Just to make sure though, have someone move the shift selector (freeplay only) in the truck while you look under the hood at the linkage coming out of the column tube.  It should move with the freeplay.  If it does, then your problem is closer to the transmission as I explained earlier.  If you do not see anything moving then the problem is in the column.

Once you get the linkage firmed up, the reverse lights should be fine or require a minor adjustment.