Chrysler Repair: 2002 45 RFE- PCM in Limp Mode?, chrysler transmissions, solenoid switch

Question
2002 Ram 1500 with a 4 speed auto 45 RFE at 102K.

I installed remote start and the same night I was getting on the highway on ramp and I noticed my RPMs in the 5000 range at 55mph and slipping (I pulled over to check fluid level and color). Well the truck drives perfect if I manually have it in 2nd or 1st, but when I put it in drive it tries to go to 3rd and slips unless I rev it up to a very high rpm and then it jumps the truck forward.

My check engine code is (Autozone) P1776 which means:

-Solenoid switch valve latched in the LR position
-Ratio error in 3rd gear
-Ratio error in 4th gear  

Also when I remotely start my truck, my ABS and Air Bag lights come on, but go out when the key is in the ign.

Could that remote install put my PCM into limp mode?

How do I clear the check engine light or code from both computers because I don't think I have any tranny problems?
(Already tried disconnecting the battery for 45min. no luck)

Also the Dealer wants to do a diagnostic test at $90 but they do very shotty and unhonest work. (I have previous experience with them)
They would tell me $2700 for a new one instead of looking for a small problem.


Answer
Hi Curtis,
I have to disclaim expertise in the truck lines, but if they are the same as the cars as regards the transmissions, then the possibilities are that the Solenoid valve is stuck in L-R position, or there is an intermittent short to ground or open circuit in the L-R pressure switch sense circuit.
So it would appear to be something related to the box on the side of the transmission rather than internal clutch issues, etc. that would require the rebuild approach. I would go to an independent transmission shop with a good reputation with Chrysler transmissions and let them handle it. I doubt it has anything to do with the remote start, but you could try disconnecting it if that is easy. Disconnecting the battery should reset the PCM fault codes, but this is a fault code recorded in the TCM so I am not sure about whether that too will erase by disconnecting the battery.
Roland