One problem related to steering column has been reported for the 1997 Ford Ranger. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I have a 1997 Ford Ranger XLT supercab, 2. 3l 4x2. I was pulling out of my parking lot at work, and 2 of the 3 bolts that hold the steering column to the steering gear box broke, causing loss of steering to the right. The steering was very loose, and I could eventually turn to the right, when the gear box lodged against the frame. I've noticed 3 other incidents in searching this website. I think this is an age issue with Ranger. Bolts shouldn't just break in two. I didn't take this to a dealership, but my friend is a mechanic and did the work for me. However, I'm concerned about safety, because if this happens on a highway, serious fatalities can occur.