Chrysler Repair: 97 T&C mini van transmission: no reverse, solenoid pack, inexpensive test

Question
I bottomed out my van the other day while trying to climb a curb(a minor bump) and since then, I cannot reverse the vehicle. The other gears work fine but she just wont move when in reverse. I had hubby jack it up and check underneath, we saw no damage related to bottoming out, only a couple of scrapes on what hubby called a cross member or bar? I dont know, can u help us pls!!!

Answer
Hi Marie,
Have you checked the fluid level as shown on the dipstick for the transmission? Too low a fluid level can cause this problem. Only use ATF +4 type fluid, and be careful not to overfill it. Another inexpensive test would be to get a fault code readout from the transmission control computer. If you have an Autozone parts store nearby they will do that for free. Ask for the 4-digit fault code number and what is title for the code(s) if there are any. Then let me know and we can go from there.
Other than that, having a transmission shop (independent, non-franchise) do a hydraulic pressure test would show if there is a problem with one of the internal clutches which are used to power the reverse gear setting. There is one clutch, called "reverse" that only operates for reverse gear, and that clutches hydrualic control pathway may be compromised which could be remedied via repair of the solenoid that operates that clutch (done by replacing the 'solenoid pack').
Roland