Audio Systems: 2000 chrysler town&country electrical problem, volt power line, wire harnesses

Question
I have a 2000 Chrysler Town&Country LTD minivan.  Recently the Mopar video system player (VCR) stopped working.  I removed it (located between the front seats) and had it repaired by a stereo/vcr repair shop (dealer said they couldn't fix it!)(I had the broken pieces).  I re-installed it (reconnect wire harnesses).  When I turned the power on in the car, there was no power to the vcr and in addition the in-dash stereo and keyless entry now no longer work (they were both working prior to the re-install).  All other electrical systems seem to be working.  I checked the fuses under the dash and they are fine.  I'm not sure where to go next.

Answer
Aldo,
Most likely something was shorted on the 12 volt power line that is shared by the stereo and the keyless entry. On the rear of your stereo you will have two 12 volt sources. 1-hot at all times. 2-one switched by ignition. If you have a volt meter or a test lamp, look for the two 12 volt sources on the rear of the stereo after you pull it out of the dash. I don't have the service manual for your vehicle so I can't tell you what wires to check for 12 volts. You can call the dealer, they will/should be able to let you know the wire colors. If you do find that one of the sources of 12 volts to the stereo is missing at least you will know that a fuse is blown somewhere. When you ask the dealer for the wire colors also ask what fuses and where they are located for the stereo. NOTE, sometimes fuses will be in a fuse box under the hood in addition to the one uner the dash.

TOM,
T&D ELECTRONICS
tdeser@zoominternet.net