Chrysler Repair: 07 T&C - no reverse, code 0733

Question
I have just under 75,000 miles on my 2007 Chrysler Town & Country; purchased it in December 2013 and am not eligible for the retroactive lifetime coverage offered for those sold after July 2014.

I went to parallel park one evening and had no reverse; the engine only revved normally, no noises before, during or after. The dealer says I have codes P1790 and P0733 showing. He says it is not electrical and will require internal work, which they no longer do themselves (they farm it out to an Aamco shop).

The shop I took it to had the same diagnosis. They suggested I may need as much as a rebuild for up to $2,000.

Does this sound appropriate?

Thanks!

Answer
Hi Leland,
A quick check of one manual suggests that there is one possible cause of the 0733 that would not provoke removal of the trans for major internal work: a problem within the solenoid-pressure switch assembly unit. That unit can be removed and either replaced or serviced quite easily because it is on the outside of the transmission (assuming that you have the 41TE four-speed unit).  Were that the case I would believe given the low mileage that it would be worthwhile trying that approach as it is possible that all the other more complex repairs are not necessary. "Don't fix what ain't broken" is my motto!
I would begin by verifying that the fluid level in the transmission is correct, using its dipstick to verify that. I would suggest then that you find an independent transmission shop that is familiar with the Chrysler transmission and ask them to do a couple of further tests that might differentiate between a solenoid/pressure switch issue vs. an internal problem with a clutch or other part that would require removal of the trans. I can copy the pages from the transmission manual that describes what can be done along these lines. Only authorize a major rebuild after checking out these details. Let me know your email address but don't use the @ symbol, instead use 'at', otherwise the address will be erased.
Please read the PS (below) and respond to it.
Thanks,
Roland