I'm glad to be back on the list, here is the scoop on my 91 Vanagon Carat.
On my way home from Virginia Beach, I threw a rod and blew a hole in my
block (possible because I had a head gasket leak that I neglected ???). I
towed the van to PA ($450 ouch) and saved my money. I bought a used block
from a local listmember, and had a mechanic put on brand new
heads,seals,gaskets......the works (Baum's in New Cumberland PA, excellent
mechanic). As of a week ago I have been driving the van and all seems well.
I have been checking the oil level and all fluid levels religiously.
Anything else I should be doing to make sure everything is OK? I have a oil
pressure kit from volks cafe lined up and will be installed hopefully next
week.  Thanks for your help in advance, its good to be back in the saddle
again.