Here's some info you were looking for on the range sensor.
http://www.mazda626.net/index.php?s=4b7c80af322c95f0700134459982665e&act=ST&f=28&t=4879 
For those too lazy to actually read the link...
6.For the CD4E with your gear shift in "neutral" you should have continuity(0 ohms) between pins 2 and 8 with the connector disconnected. Between pins 1 and 7 you should measure between 660 to 807 ohms.
7.For the CD4E with your gear shift in "reverse" you should have continuity between pins 2 and 8 with the connector disconnected. Between pins 1 and 7 you should measure between 1304 to 1593 ohms.
8.For the CD4E with your gear shift in "Park" you should have continuity between pins 2 and 8 with the connector disconnected. Between pins 1 and 7 you should measure between 3770 to 4607 ohms.
9.For the CD4E with your gear shift in "Drive" Between pins 1 and 7 you should measure between 361 to 442 ohms. Don't worry about the continuity between pins 2 and 8
Hope that helps out alot!!
