Chrysler Repair: 96 with 122K miles: transmission repair worth the money?, transmission controller, time drop

Question
The transmission on my 1997 T&C LXi (122,000 mi) went out a year ago. That was the only problem we had with the van.  We are just now in a position to fix the transmission.  My question:  is it a waste of time or will we be able to continue enjoying the family van?

Answer
Hi Nicole,
That question requires a crystal ball. I don't know of any inherent design problem with further use of the van at 122,000 miles. If you treated it gently and the engine and chassis running gear were apparently ok then I would expect that it would still continue to give good service.
When you say it went out, did you get a fault code readout of the transmission controller at that time/drop the oil pans and find debris...either of which depending upon the code would mean a removal and rebuild was necessary. But if you didn't get a firm evaluation that the only solution was a rebuild, it would be worth while trying to run the van or at least try to read out the transmission memory for what faults it had observed when it stopped running. It may or may not need a rebuild for example. But I leave that to you. If you get a readout, ask for the number, what it means, what is the repair, and what is the cost? Then if you like contact me again for verification that a rebuild is the only solution. It might be an hydraulic or electrical problem for example that could be repaired at a much lower cost.
Roland
PS I would be inclined to get the original unit rebuilt at a local well-recommended shop rather than a nationwide-chain. And compare the warranties closely if you have a choice of who does the job. These are very complex and expensive to repair units, so you want to avoid having to pay more than once in the remaining life of the van.