My head gaskets are leaking pretty obviously and need to be replaced.  Yet,
I've heard a lot of talk on the list about people nursing their vans along
for a long time before doing the job.  How does one tell if they can wait or
if it needs doing right away?  Are there any benefits to waiting or is it
bound to be detrimental?

Today I noticed that the exhaust was very white and when I stand behind the
van I smell coolant.  This suggests that coolant is getting where it
shouldn't be--Should I even drive this van at all in this state?

Much thanks,

Doug Demarest
Minneapolis, MN
86 Vanagon