Over the Thanksgiving weekend we were heading to Vancouver, B.C. from
Seattle. Just south of Everett, I noted some extra "smoke" coming out of the
back end of the van (1991 Multivan). I slowed down and moved over to the
right hand lane and doing so appeared to have quell what was going on. I
drove for a few minutes and watched the temperature gauge move up a little.
There was no indication of a fall in the coolant level (no indicator light
went on). I put on the heater and it was blowing cold air. I became
concerned and then the oil pressure light came on with the buzzer. I
immediately pull over and shut off the van. Steam blew forward in front of
the van from the rear engine compartment. I checked the coolant expansion
tank and it was bone dry! The oil level in the engine however appeared fine.
I had the van towed to Zoltan and it is now clear that the head gasket was
blown. In addition the thermostat housing was severely melted. I plan on
replacing the thermostat housing and due to my love of my van, I plan on
replacing with the best possible part (i.e., non-melting aluminum). There
are two options I have considered: the GoWesty version
(GoWesty<http://www.gowesty.com/ec_view_details.php?id=23281&category_id=79&category_parent_id=>)
and the VanCafe version
(VanCafe<http://www.van-cafe.com/home/van_1292123629253/page_1191>).
Does anyone have any opinions on these?

I am fully aware that many of you may have opinions on my decision making
process because I did not immediately pull off the road, but please be
sensitive to my emotional status -- I have a van that needs significant
attention. This does lead to my other question; what should I do about the
fact that the coolant level sensor did not respond as it has in the past? I
have purchased another sensor, but are there other things that I should also
have checked or replaced? I want the cooling system to be the best it can so
I am going to replace all coolant hoses and the radiator. I am trying to do
the most I can with the budget I have while the engine is out. I really want
to be aware of a fall in the coolant level in the future and I would be
really thankful if you might provide any sage advice on this issue or others
to consider.

Thanks,

DW