dead or dying?

Well, I just got home form rescuing the wife and child after the first problems we've had with our 99 (purchased used) and could use some advice on which way to go with this one. They stopped in for a snack and shut off the van to avoid burning $1+/ ltr gas and it wouldn't restart, just barely turn over 1/2 to 3/4 rotation at best. She swears that no idiot lights or dimming of headlights occurred, so I hooked it up and it jumped right away. Headlights brighten up upon giving the gas so I figured it was good, but it won't rev to 4K. Pedal to the floor and it wavers between 3+ and 4 for as long as I dared to try it, anyone...?:banghead: I'll check in the morning, the 3:45 alarm is already haunting me and thanks in advance...
BTW, belt's tight and terminals seem tight

That's the rev limiter. It prevents you from over-revving the engine. Have the battery and alternator tested. I suspect a bad battery. Waiting too long could cause an alternator failure, if it hasn't happened already..