'95 Eurovan camper shifting issues

[jack_b_pdx]

I have a '95 Eurovan camper that was having an issue intermittently not starting. The engine would crank, but it would not turn over. I was able to get it to start after a few tries each time this would happen, but I wanted to address the problem before it got worse. I had my mechanic replace the distributor cap, rotor, spark plugs, and ignition coil. When all those were complete, I went to pick up the van and the starting issue persisted. At this point, the mechanic could see what was happening (since he was not able to replicate it at all prior to my arrival). He also noticed the starter was making a long whine sound that was indicating it should also be replaced.

I drove the van home that day and it shut off while in stop and go traffic. I was able to put it in park and start it back up after 2 or 3 attempts, but decided to dig a little deeper after that.

We ended up replacing the Hall Sender, and the starter. Van now starts up great and appears to be running excellent, however now the van will not shift out of 1st gear. The gear indicator on the dash shows the correct position, and up until this point there have been very limited issues with shifting (very occasionally will have some hard shifts on the freeway when changing speed).

We are trying different versions of the TCM reset procedure with the ignition and accelerator, but we have not had success yet.

Anyone come across something like this? I am obviously hopeful this is something small that is computer related, or at least something I can get the part for.

Any help or suggestions are appreciated!

[SambaBurnsRed]

You need to log into the TCM and see if you are getting engine speed/RPM and vehicle speed (if that goes to the TCM in a '95)

You would think that without rpm/ speed sensing, the transmission has no idea when to shift, or it has reached the shift point.

[jack_b_pdx]

For anyone that might come across the same issue, I was able to resolve the problem (for now it seems) by just doing a reset following this procedure. I’m sure not every step is exactly necessary, but this worked for me!

1. Turn key to on position (do not start vehicle)

2. Turn key back to off

3. Turn key back to on (again, do not start)

4. While on, press the accelerator down to the floor and hold for 15 seconds

5. After 15 seconds, continue to hold the accelerator at the floor and turn key to off position, then release the pedal.

6. I removed the key from the ignition after about 30 seconds.

7. WAIT 3-5 minutes

8. Start the vehicle up normal and go for a drive. You should attempt to cycle through all gears if possible.

I found this online and kind of adapted from lots of different suggestions, however for me: it worked great!

After doing all the work on the ignition system, and after this reset, the van is shifting like butter and it drives quieter and cleaner than it ever did before. Hopefully that’s all it needed!