More likely a burned valve, not a leaky seal. Ask the mechanic again.
Typically, the way to determine if a valve stem seal is leaking is if the
engine blows a lot of smoke on deceleration, sucking oil past the seal.
Does it do that? How many miles are on it?

I'd factor in the cost of a new engine, starting around $3000.  You can
probably drive it okay, but you will lose your core if the valve breaks.

Stuart

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Jamie Fitterer
Sent: Friday, January 30, 2015 6:54 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Leaky Valve? 85 1.9L Waterbox

A friend is looking at purchasing a van that is in really good condition but
the mechanic reports the engine has a leaky valve seal and it would be
around 500 - 800 dollars for the fix.  I don't have much more information on
that and apologize for that, but it is what it is.

My question is, does anyone know what valve seal this may be?  What are some
repercussions of driving it to get it home?

Appreciate your time,

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