i really appreciate all of the responses.

i figured a good place to start would be to start the engine and watch
the coolant tanks and the light.  again, the expansion tank is at
"min." and the fill tank is full.  i drove the van until the blinking
light came on.  i expected to see a change in the coolant level, but
when i was able to stop and look, the levels were exactly the same as
before i turned the vehicle on - the only difference was that there was
visible condensation on the inside of the expansion tank and the tank
was warm to the touch.  this doesn't tell me much, as my experiment was
mostly to help me better understand how the cooling system works,
HOWEVER, does this help any w/ the diagnosis?  if not, that's ok, i'll
move on the next step...

thanks again!
dusty.

PS - fixing this blinking light is #2 on my LONG list of repairs to my
beloved westy.  i've been a little depressed lately, seeing her sit,
knowing what she needs to be in 'dependable' shape and not having the
money or know-how (some of it, atleast) to whip her back into shape.
initiating this problem has been quite motivating - i can do this!!!

Begin forwarded message:

> From: dusty edwards <dusty.edwards@mac.com>
> Date: February 5, 2006 11:21:06 AM MST
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Blinking Coolant Light Mystery (to me)
> Reply-To: dusty edwards <dusty.edwards@mac.com>
>
> so, the coolant light seems to begin blinking once the van is warm.
> i've learned a little about this scenario while searching the archives.
>
> the fill tank is full, but the expansion tank is at (or below)
> minimum..........should it be that way?
>
> any suggestions?
>
> thanks for your help!
> dusty.
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