Leaving La Paz?

Okay, I was supposed to leave yesterday, but as usual Wind Raven decided to stay a bit longer. I have no idea why she insists on staying, but in the long run I can only hope it will be for the best. I am now faced with another dilemma. While preparing for my departure I discovered oil in the bilge. In twelve hours of running the engine was down about a half a quart of oil. This would not seem to be a threat to the engine unless it got worse. The problem is that I think it might be a hole in the pan. If so, the question is, will it enlarge itself through the vibration of the engine. The pan is touching the bottom of the bilge and I feel that it might have caused the pan to rust, creating a small hole.

My options;
 I can stay here where parts, mechanics, and semi-safe anchorage are more readily available. I say semi-safe because of the opposing winds and currents that cause the La Paz waltz. I can sail North and try to make the repair in an anchorage that, if the leak becomes serious, could cause still more serious problems. I want to go North, but is it worth the risk? The main problem is that once I have the motor mounts loose and the engine raised ( to access the pan ), I would only be able to move under sail. I could also have problems with the motor mounts, since they are rusted and might have to be replaced. The slips are too expensive down here to even consider, so one way or the other, I will be at the mercy of the weather. My plan at present is as usual to vie with caution and safety in mind. That seems to be to stick around here at least until I know the exact cause of the leak. That means to get a second opinion from a good mechanic. At least then I can maybe make an informed decision. As you know, I had this leak supposedly repaired by a mechanic who assured me that it was not the pan, but a valve cover leak that was running down the block. Well it looks like he was full of it, as   the bilge testifies. Boy, when it rains, it pours!

Steve, I tried to comment on your blog, but couldn't. Is there some special way to do it, or doesn't your new blog site allow comments?