I have 138,000 on my "86 Synchro with the original engine. I did have to replace one head at 109,000, but not because of head gaskets - they were fine. However, the left head developed a coolant weep where electrolysis had resulted in a quarter-sized area of the external part of the head to become porous. Otherwise everything is running just great.

I also have some comments on tires. I recently put on a set of the original equipment size (205-70R14) Michelin MXTs. After much research, I hadn't found anything else in an appropriate size with anywhere near the load rating of 1709 lbs (much higher than the original MXL rating of 1580 lbs). I wondered at this rating, but on talking with Michelin Tech was told that that was what has been determined necessary to withstand the weight, wind loading from being so high and slab-sided, and penchant for owners to carry ridiculous loads. They said that much of the reinforcement is in the sidewall in the bead area, and that lighter-rated tires would be susceptible to failure there. I previously had Goodyear Wrangler ATs in 27X8.50, which only had a load rating of 1528 lbs. I also found that the larger diameter screwed up the gearing significantly. The van is much happier on the MXTs, which happen to be even smaller in diameter than the old MXLs by about 1/2 inch.