I pulled codes on a car at work. It didn't have a CEL but had a pending CEL for the vct, so you won't necessarily get a CEL for the vct.
But there are a ton of other things to check, especially if you haven't touched the timing belt.
98.5 SVT
91 Escort GT (almost sold)
96 ATX Zetec (i brake to watch you swerve)
FS: SVT rear sway bar
WTB: Very cheap beater
CEG Dragon Run - October 13-15