I believe it was only egg whites that should be uses. And, yes, back in the 60's I do remember adding pepper to plug a small leak. I also remember pinching off the tubes of a leak as a temporary fix.
For the heater, I'll bet the core is too far gone to salvage.
Should not be too bad to replace. I'd bet you can do it yourself!
Last edited by DMGfifty; 09/30/2012 10:14 AM.