I did the dirty deed and put in some K Sealant aka snake oil. The leaked stopped, the coolant is a mucky brown color. I'm going to shoot for the spring to do the head gasket, don't want to spend time out in the cold getting it changed, I suspect a month or 2 to get it done. I still have to procure some tools and an engine lift.
I camp during the winter months, easier to get into the sites around here, figure I can get my last hurrah at my favorite spots. This could be the last for this rig, I give it a 30% change of success.
We'll keep you up to date on how the K Seal works and what ramifications come from it.
Cheers,
Gary