2003 Saturn Sedan Forward O.K, but, NO REVERSE

Dear KHLOW2008,
The vehicle is a Saturn 4cl TWIN CAM 16 valve 1.9 liter engine.
VIN NUMBER: 1G8ZK5271WZ177096

When the vehicle is cold, it gets reverse. When run, it does not get reverse. It has tremendous pickup from 60 to 80MPH with no slipping.

I went onto ebay apparently the Eight number in the VIN is significant when dealing with transmissions.

In checking out ebay I saw that there is an electrical switching mechanism--not an expert yet, so forgive me if I don't know what the #% & I am referring to. So, before I yank the transaxle and replace it--or rebuild it--I want to learn more.

I did order a SATURN shop manual. The seller said it was for SATURN SHOPS. The chilton that I have inherrited is geared to the owner, and not an in-depth study of the vehicle.

The vehicle is presently located at the ALGIERS-NEW ORLEANS NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY AUTO HOBBY SHOP, and we can do absolutely everything there if given enough information. So, anything that you may suggest will be greatly appreciated.

I am prepared to pull the engine to get to the transaxle and I am asking you whether-or-not that is the way to go. Also, the vehicle has 191,000 miles on it. I am wondering if since we are pulling the engine anyway, it would be a good idea to do something to the engine while it is out. It works fine, but, if there is something that can be done to send the vehicle on for another 200,000 miles, then, I would like to consider it.

Thanks for your advice, I am also doing a VOLKSWAGEN THING and a 1960 CADDY, I will be asking your advice on the caddy, as, I want to do LAMBORGHINI DOORS, but, when I do I will hit you with another donation, or, do you all just have one bigger donation level that gets me a bunch of answers. I got a bunch of cars, and a couple of busses, and, I DON'T DO ANYTHING BEFORE ASKING AN EXPERT.

Sir, if you have anybody in the military who you can say a word to, please, promote the Military Hobby Shops, they are in danger of going 86. Specifically the New Orleans Hobby Shop. We will have 3,000 marines on board and there is a very good possibility that the shop will become a parking lot. It is an excellent activity for the men and women on base.
Billy