Why is APPS 53032456AE or 53032455AD discontinued and what is the best workaround?

I’ve been trying to find a replacement APPS (Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor) for my 2004 Dodge RAM 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi, and I’m completely stuck. The part number is 53032456AE (I’ve also seen 53032455AD listed for some trucks), but it’s been discontinued everywhere I check.

I’ve called dealerships, tried eBay, checked every junkyard within 100 miles, and searched through more forums than I can count. Even when I find a used one, people say they fail just as fast — which makes sense since this part is like 20 years old now.

What’s weird is I noticed some of these sensors have Mercedes logos on them, which I guess might be from when Dodge was part of DaimlerChrysler back then? Either way, no one seems to be making new ones.

I’ve seen people try adapting newer sensors, or even converting to 2005-style pedals, but that looks like a ton of fabrication and wiring changes, and I’m just not up for that level of work.

Is anyone aware of a solid workaround or replacement option that doesn’t involve hunting down another 20-year-old part that might die next week?

I’m seriously about to give up and park the truck. Any ideas?