Chrysler Repair: Plymouth ignition and panel problems, communication failure, green stuff

Question
I have a 1998 Plymouth Espresso van.  There are times when the van will not start.  Usually it will start and immediately die three times and after this it will not even turn over.  Sometimes it will start in about 10 to 15 minutes or it may take up to 24 hours.  It has been to the Chrysler dealship 3 times and to two other mechanics with no help.  I know that it was having the problem one time while it was being checked.  No solution.  This has left my wife stranded several times.  Also at times while driving the speedometer pegs at 120mph and the rest of the guages peg at zero.  The van continues to run fine and will ever start again if it is turned off.  I hope that you can help.  Thanks,  Eugene Blackmon

Answer
This really isn't something I could diagnose without looking at. First thing I would do after I checked all the controllers for diagnostic codes.Would be to start looking at all of the grounds,particularly on the left side of the engine compartment.I would also look underneath the power distribution center (fuseblock under the hood)for any growing green stuff.If your cluster is dropping out then you have a "bus communication failure".What dealer have you been to?