Sorry everyone for that weird text.

I just wanted to thank you all for your assistance, I will be ordering my
new parts shortly.  Hopefully just for the cooling system and not an engine!

i just got a call in to my friends and they are approaching the
california/nevada state line where they will stop to inspect the van further
and possibly stay till morning for repairs.

They say the cork is holding well and the temp is staying low, the light
continues to blink though!

Loretta