I just had the same trouble mate.my N reg Escort van started to leak oil from the crankshaft oil seals i couldnt be arsed to fix it plus the engine was begining to sound rougher by the week,so i sold it and now have a newer Astra van!

I did it mainly because i had quite a few problems with the escort and wanted a newer (hopefuly more reliable) van! Plus its much better to drive!