Something is definitely wrong and is being overlooked. Even 50K is a short
life. Yes it is possible to get a bad outer gasket, (I have had a few) but
there is either a problem wit the mating surfaces or the gasket sealant
being used. Assuming good materials, sealant, and installation, the outer
gasket should last a good long time.

Dennis, almost at 250K on mine.

>From: "Richards, Andrew" <Andrew.Richards@NIKE.COM>
>Reply-To: "Richards, Andrew" <Andrew.Richards@NIKE.COM>
>To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
>Subject: head-aches
>Date: Wed, 30 May 2007 15:41:36 -0700
>
>Hey All,
>
>
>
>My '87 GL may have sprouted its third passenger side head gasket leak in
>30K miles.  My mechanic replaced the heads with AMC's at 128K.  The
>passenger side started leaking again at about 134K.  My mechanic
>repaired it free of charge.  It now looks to be leaking again at 159K
>miles.  Driver's side has been fine.  It's my understanding that I
>should see at least 50K on a new set of heads/gaskets before any work is
>needed.  Could there be something wrong with the mating surface on my
>block?  Or do I need to find a new mechanic?
>
>
>
>I've replaced the radiator, water pump, fan temp switch, and thermostat
>all in the last three years.  Proper coolant used.  I've never
>over-heated the van, but my needle does sit just above the light when
>warmed up (been told this is fine by Go Westy and other sources).  What
>seems to be a mix of oil and coolant is dripping from the block "nub"
>towards the front of the vehicle.
>
>
>
>Thanks,
>
>
>
>Andrew
>
>Portland, OR
>
>'87 Vanagon GL, 159K
>
>