Questions and Answers
Leaking Mercedes
Q. Hi, I am Robert and I own a 1986 MB 300E. It has 220,000km on it. The car runs fine but it has oil leaks from both sides of the engine meaning if you are looking at the side of the engine, leaks are coming from both sides.
I guess it is the cylinder head gasket but I am not sure. If it is, do I have to resurface the cylinder head? Because an import mechanic told me that it is aluminum, and all I have to do is replace the cylinder head gasket. Please give some feedback and tips regarding this matter. Thank you in advance.
Robert
A. Mercedes have been notorious for leaking more oil than the Exxon Valdez. I would say most of the work i have done at the Mercedes dealerships have been repairing oil leaks.
I would give the engine a good wash and make sure it is the head gasket, which it could very well be. The top front cover was a common oil leak point. There is a "U" seal that always leaked.
If it is indeed the head gasket I would most definitely have the head pressure tested and resurfaced. I would never just slap a head back on without doing this. Aluminum heads tend to warp more easily then cast iron heads and it's cheap insurance for a good job
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