Chrysler Repair: 1996 T&C stall, rough idle and code 11, crank sensor, hall effect sensor

Question
1996 T&C LXI 3.8l: I have owned this van since 1999...and every so often the engine will die while driving.  Usually upon accel.  It will sometimes restart right away, other times it takes a few minutes of resting before it will start again.  Currently it will occasionally run rough and idle low (700rpm).  A few weeks ago the check engine light came on and stored a code 11.  The light is off now, but the car continues to sputter intermittently.  Suspect crank sensor...is there a way to check the function?  Any suggestions?  

Answer
Hi Leslie,
You can check the wiring between the sensor and the controller, but the hall effect sensor itself is a solid state device that behaves when it is failing in the way that you describe (on again off again, recovers when cools down). So I would be inclined to believe the code and get a new sensor. You might be able to tell that it isn't working when the engine dies again, but you would have to be ready with a voltmeter and a wrench and socket to turn over the engine by hand and observe the pulsations on the signal wire. But you very seldom have this sort of problem that is not due to a failing sensor. They are less than $100 and easy to install. Leave the paper spacer on its tip as this when pressed against the flexplate provides the proper distance for the interface.
Roland