trans in limp mode 97 3.3 4spd help

[cuda325i]

hello, i have a check engine light on my 97 grand caravan 3.3 with the electronic 4 sp automatic, codes came up as p1698..no ccd message from tcm and i also got a p0500 no veh speed sensor signal....my prnd21 on the dash has all boxes around them and trans seems to be in limp mode...funnty thing is when i start the van, i have no mileage or prnd21 lit up and no tach,fuel gauge operation...but as soon as i put it in gear..it all comes to life....what gives?...where to start looking? thanks

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[computerpulse]

I would suggest starting with your ingition switch. It's inexpensive and may just correct the problem. Switch is located just down the steering column.

[chopper]

I agree with computerpulse and would like to add there might be a loose wire thats getting moved when the gear shift lever is moved.this wire may or may not be under the dash.It could be outside around the transmission shift cable.
There's a speed sensor located between the cooler lines on the top of the transmission you might need to replace also.I got the new version for $20 at a Dodge dealer.I think they goofed on the price though,another dealer quoted me on for $50 but were out of stock.

[dirtmover]

ORIGINAL: chopper
There's a speed sensor located between the cooler lines on the top of the transmission you might need to replace also.I got the new version for $20 at a Dodge dealer.I think they goofed on the price though,another dealer quoted me on for $50 but were out of stock.

Thespeed sensor on its own will only cause it to limp. I would think it more likely that whatever else is going on is causing the TCM to throw the speed sensor code. BTW, dealer #2 is trying to screw you. I paid CAN$35 last year for this sensor. Given the exchange rate, the fact that we get screwed on just about everything up here and that RockAuto (man, I wish I had access to these prices)sell the sensor for $13.58your $20 sounds about right.

[cuda325i]

after checking almost everything..the problem wastraced tothe junction block....ordered from the dealer and 300.00 dollars later...away we go....solved the problems....

[cuda325i]

after a week.....van relapsed......same codes and all....

[cuda325i]

update, bad ground wire in the harness under the battery....problem solved 2day......lets drive and see......yee ha....

[rthegremlin2]

Amazingly my wifes 98 GC had the same problem. We also had a bad switch for the vent/floor/defrost selction on the heat/ac control panel. I swapped out the panel and the problem was gone. I have no idea how the 2 issues are related but its fixed and thats the only thing I did to it.