I had an intermitent problem where my fans wouldn't work and yes it turned out to be the ECT (engine coolant temp sensor). This part is also $35-$40 + coolant. Pretty easy to replace, just in a realy bad spot.
I used a scanner to diagnose this.
Yes you can swap the high and low fan relays to test with as they are the same.
1996 2.5LT V6 Contour ATX
My Tour+help/info pics
E0 rims, Gutted Pre-Cats,CTA Custom Exhaust & Intake, Diablo Chip.