R is next to N , between P and N, so try on each side of the shiftgate Index for R to make sure you are not in N or P b/c of bushing slop...
If you can not find R anywhere between P and N ,that is not the problem
[ make sure you wait on each side b/c R takes a little slag of time to engage.]

You can also tell if the trans gear selection is in the correct R position by having someone tell you when the Back-up lamps are ON as you fool with the shifter. If your NSS was aligned before no R , then it should still be in the R shaft position of the tranny, regardless of the shifter link or bushings.
Meaning lamps shoud be the same position as R engagement position of shift shaft that goes into the tranny. You have BU lamps and no R , you have a likely trans R clutch problem [ kinds common]

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A Dalton