Have a 2002 RAM 1500 QC 4X4 with 5.9 and Sport trim package.

Dealer performed a recall for some obscure shifter problem--now I just found out I have two new problems--and they make no sense. Would appreciate a pointer as to where to start looking--

1> Difficult to get shifter into PARK--sometimes have to try 3-4 times before park activiates and indicatopr actually shows it's in PARK..

2> When I shift in 1 the entire electrical system shuts down like I turned off key !!!

Where should I start looking--the dealer is 30 miles away and it's bee 2 months so they are going to say NFW--

Would appreciate thoughts/suspicions...

 

I would take the top half of the steering column cover off and try to change gears and watch the mechanism for binding or anything like that

 

How difficult is it to get the plastic off steering column? I can't feel any screws but then I haven't tried to get contorted enough to see underneath column--

Is there a wiring diagram of that area to see what night be cuasing it to go dead when I shift into 1 >>

 

problem number 1 sounds like possibly Transmission range sensor, Although this would normally throw a code. For problem number 2, I cant see anything in the diagrams that would cause this, Unless maybe there is a break in the ignition power wire and when you shift to 1 some how you are tweaking just right.

 

THanks for replies--

Tried going into 1 slowly and it didn't shut down electrical system so I guess something is tweaking the wire-

Thanks again