[bobbydirl]

Thanks HondaDustR, I feel pretty good about not driving it after the coolant really started making it's way into the oil pan in a notable way. The thing is, I can't get it in my head how coolant can be forced up into that spot under the oil filter threads as shown in the picture. I suppose the level of the coolant still in the engine must be higher than the gasket failure, or cracked head metal, which in turn must be higher than the bottom level of the oil filter. Weather permitting, I hope to have the head off soon. It's in my garage, but I got the crud from laying on the cold floor dealing with the exhaust headers, ...and have had to slow down a bit.
BTW, if it is the head, I could use some advice on the best way to go about finding another one, ....or, (and I hate this!..) how to go about "parting it out".
...also, I read your story on the paper towels, ...useful info.