Hi, I have a 2002 Dodge Ram van 2500. The van won't start in park only neutral. On the dash display it won't show the van in park, but it is. It shows the van in reverse and the reverse lights are on the back of the van. I have replaced the neutral safety switch and still the same problem. Does any body have an idea what I would check next? Thanks

 

It sounds like your linkage is not putting the tranny fully into park. It's probably stopping like 1/2 way between park and reverse, which is why your reverse lights are on. Fortunately, it is going far enough to engage the parking gear or else your van would be rolling down the street. Do a linkage adjustment before that happens...okay!

 

Thanks for the reply. Is there any easy way to describe how to adjust the linkage? Thanks

 

Do you have a cable for shifting the tranny or do you have linkage/rods?

 

Just recently, Chrysler issued some sort of recall that deals with this problem. It seems that your van is doing just what the recall states. My Ram Van/Wagon is affected by this recall too. I'm just waiting forthe paperwork to show up at the house before taking it in.

Recall Alert: 2001-2002 Dodge Durango, Dakota, Ram Trucks and Ram Vans
December 10th, 2007

(AP) More than 576,000 Dodge trucks, SUVs and vans are being recalled because of a faulty gearshift that could shift out of park without the key in the ignition. This is a serious defect because of the chance of children playing in parked cars.

Vehicles included in the recall are all 2001- and 2002-model-year Dodge Durango SUVs, Dakota pickups, Dodge Ram vans and 2002-model-year Dodge Ram pickups.

The problem stems from a part that can wear out over time. Nine injuries have been reported. The company instructs owners to always use the parking brake and, obviously, to follow the recall notice for instructions on getting the vehicles serviced and fixed.