Ive checked all fuses and all fusible links (the mighty tug test) none are blown.

So I guess I need to check the grounds for each bulb/function...

Havent been able to pull the starter, its been raining for the last 2 days and its like, 30 something outside... in georgia.

I still cannot explain the random engine shutdown/starter not working all happening at the exact same time.

 

What all is still working in your van and what all is not working, electrically speaking?

 

air/heat, rear a/c. turn signals, hazards, parking, brake and tag lights. starter circuit, gauge cluster (except for voltmeter/oil pressure) dome lights, horn, fuel pump ( i can hear it running, going to double check that it is in fact getting power)

what doesnt work
radio (intermittent), starter (i think it just went bad, havent physically tested the starter yet) wiper motor (weird), message center.

I think that about covers it.

 

Went to the local Pull-a-Part today and got an ecu and starter (the last one off the 2nd gen 5.2s, already removed from the block lol) for a whopping 50 bucks with warranty.
taking the starter currently on the van and the one I picked up and having them both tested.
If both test good, i'll put the stock one back on and keep the one I picked up as a spare.

Then its onto the ecu I guess...

 

the ecu is less than 5 min to r&r but ya need to make sure all your grounds are good

 

ok, I don't know how I missed this but the large orange fusible link (20ga equivalent) was blown as in melted in half.

From what I can tell it controls the wiper motor, the signal to the starter from the relay and im not sure what else... can't tell from my manual what it controls as my 94 wiring section doesn't show fusible links.

Im going to make another thread about the link