[C38] heat exchanger

[Jonathan Whitney]

Hi,
I am a proud new owner of a '79 Cat 38 "Kuu Haku".  The engine is a Universal 5424.  Recently had some overheating issues when sailing back from Maui to Oahu.  Coolant was leaking somewhere, temp gauge reading over 200 F.  Replaced scaled seawater lines, removed the heat exchanger (3" replacement, I'm guessing, as I think the 5424 originally came with a 2" exchanger).  It was visibly clogged and anode totally gone.  So I took it to a radiator shop to get boiled.  They called and said there were a bunch of leaks and needs to be replaced.  My question is:  Is it possible to replace just the core, or should I just get a replacement exchanger?  Also, has anyone replaced a similar unit for less than the ~$400 at Torrensen.  Are there any replacement brands to stay away from, or others people have had good luck with?  

Also, as I have noticed a slow leak in the coolant, it seems safe to say that FW/antifreeze is leaking into raw water, but should I assume seawater has contaminated the FW side.  I have drained and flushed all the FW coolant, but if there is a chance seawater has gotten in the lines should I do something else to treat the FW side to ensure all seawater is flushed out.  

Any information would be really appreciated.  

Jon Whitney
1979 Cat 38 "Kuu Haku"
#54
Honolulu, Hawaii
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