Chrysler Repair: 2001 Chrysler T&C LXI error codes and erratic temp gauge, coolant temp, temp gauge

Question
QUESTION: I have a 2001 Chrysler T&C LXI van, 3.8L, 114,000 miles. Never had this problem before until 6 days ago when I started it up in the morning to go to work. Drove about 1 block and check engine light came on, then by the next city block, the temp. gauge shot to the top and the red hi-temp light came on. Did some troubleshooting and the error codes were 0117 (temp sensor), 0106 (ram error), and 1684 (disconnected battery within last 50 starts). I have not had the battery disconnected in several months and the terminals were clean and tight. Bought a new coolant temp sensor and checked it against the old one before installing. Had the same resistance at ambient temp and was not replaced. The connector plug that attaches to the temp sensor has 5 volts on one pin and a zero-ohm reading to ground on the other pin (normal). This is what is really interesting; even if the motor has not been running for a day or so and I turn on the keyswitch to the start position, and wait about one minute,the temp gauge still goes to top and the overtemp light comes on and so does the audible chime! But after about 10 seconds, the gauge drops back to about half-scale, alarms extinguish, and chime stops. Then after another 10 seconds, the cycle repeats (again, engine not started). Have done extensive checking of shorted wires/harness, connectors, etc. Also, the check-engine light blinks about 10 times, pauses, then one more blink befor staying on after key is turn on to the start position. I have researched that the PCM could be bad, but could the TCM also be bad and sending bad info via the CCD bus? I also removed the instrument cluster and checked the connector plug; looks new. Thanks for your help!

ANSWER: Hi David,
The 0106 code is saying that MAP sensor voltage is out of range, not a "ram error". Those two sensors only share a common sensor ground wire to pin 43 of the pcm. Check that wire for continuity and also check that it is indeed at ground potential and not shorted to a voltage source. There are 11 sensors/modules that share that common ground wire, so it is possible that some where in that 'tree' of wires you have a short to voltage.
Roland
PS Sorry for the delay but I just found your question in the 'pool' to which it had been refered by Kevin.
Please 'rate' my answer, and where you  see the question about a nomination of me to be 'volunteer of the month' consider a 'yes' response. Thank you


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QUESTION: I am so sorry, but I had a typo in my last post. The error code is 0116, not 0106 like I stated. But all the symptoms and the rest of the question is still the same...so sorry, and thanks again for your help. It looks like from your answer that a wiring problem could still be present. The temp gauge "acts" like it's signal is getting crossed with another one somewhere. Also I just noticed yesterday that when the temp gauge does indeed peg out to the top momentarily, that I get a small decrease in engine rpm only during that time.
Thanks again!

Answer
Hi David,
Thanks for the clarification on that code.  I agree that there must be a short that is perhaps grounding the temp sensor signal wire which goes to pin 26. For example pin 27 is the oxygen sensors' ground wire. I think you will find the problem using your volt-ohm meter and some judicious flexing of the harnesses. Please let me know how it resolves. And if you have moment for a 'rating' that would be appreciated.
Roland