97 Jimmy tranny in limp mode + key stuck + SES light

I recall seeing a possible relationship between these problems in other threads, but haven't been able to find them again.

The transmission tries to start out in third gear when in drive. If the lever (floor console) is put into second, it will start out in second, so these days we are driving this as a 2-speed manual. This problem started a few months ago and usually would go away for a while once I cleared the SES codes (consisting of several tranny solonoid errors). I called a tranny shop and they said that it was unlikely that all the solonoids would actually go bad at once.

About that same time the key started not coming out. Now both problems are continuous. I have printed out the how-to on replacing the ignition solonoid, but am not sure if this is directly related.

Any advice and either/both problems is appreciated!

What codes do you have now?

97 had a lot of ign switch problems.

P0740
P0440
P0753
P0758
P0785
P1860

Do you recall ever seeing a relationship between the ignition switch problem and the transmission limp mode? I remember seeing a thread or post that explained that inside the steering column there is a switch (not the key tumbler) that somehow affected this wierd tranny malfunction; that the limp mode was being triggered by this malfunctioning electrical switch, and not by actual malfunctioning of the transmission solonoids.

Thank you for your insights!

The ign switch will do a lot of bad things.
I would check it out and or replace it first.
Good luck
MT

Check your PM box. I sent you some info....

If Blazee didn't cover it, here's some links on a few of your problems.

The solenoid on the steering column that fails and won't let the key turn to off;
http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=744170

Ignition switch replacement;
http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=287636

While I never had any codes when my Ignition switch went out, I had read of others having some tranny solenoid error codes posting.

Good luck.

Wow, gentlemen! These are awesome responses - exactly what I need. You guys are life savers...

I will follow up to post repair results.

Finally got around to replacing the ignition switch harness and YES! All problems listed were solved. The tranny is once again a 4-speed automatic, the key tumbler functions properly, and SES light is off.

The following thread is extremely valuable:
Ignition switch replacement;
http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...d.php?t=287636

I added my comments on the operation there in post #31.