Well, even after putting the heat exchanger back on the engine, removing the loop that runs to the water heater, pressure-testing, dye testing and two sea trials we still have no definitive answer as to where my coolant is disappearing to or why.

Everything seems to point to a defect in the heat exchanger core which is allowing the coolant to pass through and go overboard with the exhaust. Unfortunately, there's no way to get that part tested down here. The mechanic and his boss seem to think that replacing the core is the way to proceed but I'm reluctant to replace a 689.00 part if I'm not sure thats the problem..... just sayin'

Anyway, on a happier note, I ran into some friends here that I met while cruising in the Bahamas a few years ago. Since then we have met up twice in Fort Pierce and once in Key West. They're a lovely canadian couple (Bill and Mary) and are cruising on a 38' Hunter as well.

In a last ditch effort to pull a rabbit out of my hat, I cleaned the engine compartment thoroughly and put down a brand new clean pad underneath the engine. This afternoon, Bill and Mary are going to go out with me for another sea trial where I'm going to run the engine for at least an hour or so at cruising speed. Based on what I find after that, I'll decide whether to replace the core or not.

Oh, and, lest you think I'm working all the time, my good friend Tom and his girlfriend Ellie took me out to dinner last night. Anyway, stay tuned!