Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Overdrive Off all by itself

[Dirks]

I did a bunch of searches on this subject and only found stuff that kind of match my problem. I will be driving on the freeway in overdrive and lockup when all by itself, the "overdrive off" light comes on and the transmission drops out of overdrive. Of course, I didn't push the button but it acts like someone did. I push the button and it goes right back to overdrive and eventually back to lockup. The problem seems to occur mostly when I'm driving over rough areas of the freeway.



I did read that a loose or corroded connection of the speed sensor on top of the rear differential may cause shifting problems and I have replaced this sensor about 20k ago when it completely failed. I also have done all the work to improve lockup like separating the alternater wire, cleaning up grounds, replaced throttle sensor, etc. No problems with lockup now.



I'm just checking in to see if the loose connection at the speed sensor is the most obvious problem or is there a solenoid in the transmission that is about to fail. BTW, no check engine light when this happens.



Also note that I have a BDTowLoc that automatically always places the overdrive in off when the engine is first started and the truck rolled past 5 mph.

 

[cerberusiam]

The wires for the OD button run down thru the steering column and frequently get pinched or rubbed. That will cause intermittent contact just like the momentary switch has been pushed.



The other thing that can happen is the spring in the button gets weak and a rough road will cause the contacts in the shifter stalk to touch and do the same thing.

 

[DACoffman]

I just replaced my switch,20 bucks at dodge dealer and takes bout 3 minutes.