[atoman]

Since you have a grey "chipped" key, you need to find out how the "handshake" works in 1st gen Sentry Immob (for the '01) systems.
You may need to get the ignition lock, key, VTSS / SKIM or BCM from the same donor van for a simple swap to work.

 

[atoman]

At the very minimum, you'll need to have a "matching set" of PCM (aka ECU), SKIM, and Original Key (paired to the SKIM).
It would be helpful to have the ignition lock keyed to the orig. key, but you could use a simple metal copy of your key and hold / tape the original (paired) key to it...

Otherwise the PCM must be reprogrammed to accept your van's ("new") SKIM module.

[quote='01 FSM]
OPERATION
Each Sentry Key has a unique transponder identi-
fication code permanently programmed into it by the
manufacturer. Likewise, the SKIM has a unique
9Secret Key9 code programmed into it by the manu-
facturer as well. When a Sentry Key is programmed
into the memory of the SKIM, the SKIM stores the
transponder identification code from the Sentry Key,
and the Sentry Key learns the 9Secret Key9 code from
the SKIM. Once the Sentry Key learns the 9Secret
Key9 code of the SKIM, it is also permanently pro-
grammed into the transponder's memory. Therefore,
blank keys for the SKIS must be programmed by the
SKIM in addition to being cut to match the mechan-
ical coding of the ignition lock cylinder. Refer to Elec-
trical, Vehicle Theft Security, Transponder Key,
Standard Procedure - Transponder Programming.
The Sentry Key's transponder is within the range
of the SKIM's transceiver antenna ring when it is
inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. When the
ignition switch is turned to the ON position, the
SKIM communicates with the Sentry Key via a radio
frequency (RF) signal. The SKIM determines if a
valid key is present based on the information it
receives from the Sentry Key. If a valid key is
detected, that fact is communicated to the PCM via
the PCI bus and the vehicle is allowed to continue
running. If an invalid key is received by the PCM or
no status at all is communicated, the vehicle will
stall after two (2) seconds of running. The indicator
light will be flashing at this point. The Sentry Key's
transponder can not be repaired. If it is faulty or
damaged, it must be replaced.
Common communication problems:
² Two transponder keys too close together.
² Speed Pass too close to transponder key.
Solid indicator that there is a system failure.
² Loss of PCM communication.
² Failed antenna circuit.
[/quote]

 

[atoman]

You can also try to find a local "mobile programmer" some guys will travel and reprogram a PCM on the spot, check if there's one around and how much he wants. Reputable independent repair shop might help you get in touch with someone.

 

[atoman]

It looks like getting gray key, SKIM and PCM all together from a donor car would be close to impossible when you are getting them from a junk yard. Especially getting the SKIM module will be difficult to get out as they are hidden in the steering column, next to the key ignition. One may need to brake the ring to get it. I am not sure if the the module is still good with broken ring.....

No need to break any rings, the plastic/rubber ring that goes over the cylinder is the actual antenna for the SKIM module (you tear that, the module probably won't be able to communicate with the key). It simply slides over the top part of ignition lock...

I called local Chrysler dealer and they said they will reprogram my used PCM for $140.
I try Googling "mobile programmer" for a local shop and was not able to find one that will work with individual. The shop will work with a mechanic shop. Any other way to find a shop to reprogram?

Goggle isn't going to find squat for you. If you use a shop locally, ask them what they do when they need a module programmed (they may go to the dealer, or send the module out, or drive it to a local shop, or have someone come in and do it for them, or do it themselves...)
If you do all your own service and don't have a "relationship" with any local shops, pick a couple of local shops that seem to be decent (say get good reviews from friends / relatives / co-workers / etc) and ask them what they do with modules they need programmed (pref. in person, and of the guy who does the work not some front desk guy who may not know).
You can check with local parts stores, but their prices can have sharks teeth..

The other option is to send the donor PCM to a "rebuilder" to have it "fixed" - reprogrammed.
Before you go to this dealer you called, call another dealer in the area and get their price.

Atoman,

So if I do find grey key and matching SKIM (Sentry Key Immobilized Module) along with the PCM, I can tape the key and the SKIM together to place it inside the steering column and swap the PCM. Will that actually work? There are two grey keys involved in starting the engine.... Not sure how this would work.

Is there any way I can disable the SKIM/VTSS (Vehicle Theft Security System) altogether?

Sorry, so many questions.....

If you tape the RFID chip to the antenna of SKIM, it's like you always leave a key in the ignition lock. (you're back to simple mechanical key for turning the cylinder & activating the switch)
Two keys are required to program additional keys, not needed to start engine.

There is no way to disable. If you could locate all compatible modules from a van without VTSS, you could swap the modules and have a basic / plain key start system.

Now, the problem with passing emissions:
If your inspection station connects a computer to OBD2 port on your van, and you put in a PCM (ECU) module from a different van (with a different VIN) - the numbers won't match and you're likely to fail the inspection and it could cause more problems in the future (if the records are sent to state DMV, it will become a 'permanent' record in their database).

 

[atoman]

Once more with feeling, call the rebuilder, and ask if they can fix yours.

That would mean downtime for the van...
Any decent rebuilder should be able to flash the junkyard PCM (which he already has) to "new module state" if provided with the VIN (so they can determine correct flash & NVRAM data for the specific engine & equipment).
When that donor (junk yard) PCM comes back, all he'll have to do is swap the original module out for the donor (~30 min task) and be able to drive the vehicle.
Additionally, if the 'rebuilt' module has any issues, he can put his old module back in and send the 'new' module back for any issues to be resolved.