I was able to get away with not replacing them on my 85 1.9L.  Most of the
others on the list who have done their own head gasket repairs seem to have
had a similar experience.  Just make sure the cylinder sleeves don't come
out too far when you pull the head off.  (For sure it will be stuck to the
sleeves, so be careful and take it slow)

Dave in KC
85 Westy

----- Original Message -----
From: "raul lince" <eeore37@HOTMAIL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Monday, November 04, 2002 8:12 PM
Subject: head replacement details, nitty gritty

 When replacing the gaskets around the cylinders ;
> is it wise to change the gaskets at the base of the cylinder sleves