Thanks for your prompt replies.  The leak is in the rear of the engine,
as you have now defined it (makes sense...) and I am positive it is
oil.  All of your suggestions as to what it could be sound valid (and
some better than others).  The one that caught my attention was "pushrod
tube seals."

My first mechanic after buying "Geordi" wagged a bent piece of pipe at
me and said "someone had worked on" the pushrods and that was where my
initial oil leak was coming from.  My new mechanic has said nothing
about pushrods, but instead says I have oil coming from the
transmission.  I think I probably have two leaks :).

Not knowing what is involved with pushrods, I am wondering about putting
in a rebuilt engine and why I might want to at this point.  I am, of
course, in love with "Geordi," and his body and interior is all right.
He was almost free (traded in my "uck" station wagon and spent about
$1,500 in fixes) so I still feel lucky to be driving him around.  How do
you all make this decision, and what is actually involved (besides
$3,000) in doing the deed?

Thanks again for being there.

Suzanne
"Geordi" '90 Vanagon Carat