Volvo D1-30 Heat Exchanges leak - advice please

[picardy]

My D1-30 with 300 hrs (2006 year) has developed a saltwater seep from the forward end of the heat exchanger.

The attached parts diagram most easily explains it and it seems to be a seep between the end plate (no 3) and I assume is a failing gasket (ie No 7)

Questions

1 Looking at the photo attached and the drawings am I right?
2 If so is this an easy job to fix ie remove end plate, replace washer and re-fix or do I need to do a drain down, clear airlocks etc
3. If so is there anything else i should do while I am replacing this part?

Many thanks in advance

 

[robmcg]

1) likely to be a failed or improperly seated gasket. Replace and see if it cures the problem.
2) Yes, pretty easy job. You will need to drain some of the freshwater side so it doesn't come cascading out of the heat exchanger housing when you dismantle. Partial draining should not induce an airlock. Just remember to top back up with correct water/antifreeze mixture.
3) If you remove the heat exchanger matrix, check it against a light for any crud or build up in the tubes. Gently rod them out if they are a bit blocked or have a bit of build up.