>>

I'd love to take it apart and replace the gasket myself.  Would it make
any sense to try and remove just the heads, with engine in the van, and
replace only the gaskets?  Most of my research on-line shows people
removing the engine and doing a pretty thorough rebuild - would love to
if I had the time + tools.

<<

I've done the head gaskets with the engine in the van. I had access to a
lift though.  Not sure how hard it would be without.   I think for allot of
people that work on Vanagons all the time it's easier for them to take the
engine out.

300 for AMC heads is a good deal if they are in good shape.

Bryan