roommates ford aerostar <1994, 3.0, 2wd> wont start. said that he was driving, and that it felt like the engine just shut off. did a codescan, got several codes, most having to do with emissions and air/fuel ratio trimming, but wouldnt keep the van from starting. came across code 212 however, which indicates the following:

Trouble codes: 212 (Continuous Memory Code 212 no rpm signal received to pcm).

essentially what it comes down to anyway. so, will this prevent starting, and where do i go from here? going to try pulling icm and coil for testing later tonight if nobody stops me

I would expect that to kill the engine. RPM is got from the CKP sensor. Without that signal the car doesnt know the location of the pistons, or even that engine is turning. Fuel injection will cease, and if the ignition is module controlled that will stop too.

Edit: spellcheck

212 wont disable typically the engine, thats the ignition diagnotic monitor line. Pull the ignition control module and have it tested is the best bet and most likely culprit. Most parts places will test it for free.

on the a/f trimming, were there and adaptive limit codes present, that''d be a good indication of vacuum/ intake leaks. Also be sure the SPOUT connector is in (the timing connector) you can even try starting the car with it out but I think you'll still get a no spark condition due to the ICM

Heres a site for your Codes and another for more Help