In a message dated 98-07-05 20:32:00 EDT, dmc@CYBURBAN.COM writes:

> As a prospective purchaser of a VW van I have been reading about this
>  problem. I must admit this has almost made me cross VW off my shortlist.

I don't think the problem is large enough to cross off the Vanagon.

>  Does this problem only apply to Vanagons or also to the Eurovan?

Just watercooled Vanagons with "waterboxer" engines from 83 to 91.
Eurovans use a completely unrelated engine.

>  How would a prospective purchaser check for this problem?

Look for leaks or evidence of leaks (like whitish/greenish/bluish residue) on
the bottom side of the heads near the gasket.  Probably best to ask the seller
if this van has had the heads/gaskets replaced yet.  If so, find out details.
If not, plan on relacing them someday.  I think the majority of Vanagons get
70,000 to 140,000 from a pair of heads.  I've occasionally heard of it as
early as 50,000 miles.  I met a guy a few weeks ago with a 1990 that has OVER
300,000 miles on the original engine with NO HEAD LEAKS and no other
significant repairs.

Good luck,
Jim Davis