DIY Valve Cover Gasket on C320: Need some help

JLD2k3 · 10-05-2011, 04:27 PM

I found DIY instructions for one of the V8 engines for the valve cover gaskets and it looked pretty easy. I've got a quote from an independent shop for $365, so that comes to 4.25 hours and $60 in parts. I don't see how the V8 instructions could take a professional that long to do, so I'm considering doing it myself.

Does anyone have DIY instructions for this on the C320? How long for a moderately skilled amateur? Any obstacles, pitfalls, risks, tricks, necessary tools?

Thanks

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ericgoh · 10-05-2011, 04:37 PM

I believe the instructions are pretty much the same. I used those instructions to do my c240. Do you know if you need to do the recirculating covers as well? If so, removing the old sealant is a pain and can be very time consuming.

pcy · 10-05-2011, 05:30 PM

I've changed the valve cover gaskets on '04 C320 (M112 engine). It was very straightforward and relatively easy. Passenger side is super easy since there are no obstructions. On drivers side, you will have to disconnect fuel line because it runs right on top of the valve cover.

While you are changing the valve covers, I recommend you to open and clean engine breathing chambers (they are attached to the valve covers). Valve cover gaskets are around $15 for each side.

pcy · 10-05-2011, 05:35 PM

By the way, if you need to change spark plugs, it's very easy to access the spark plugs when the valve covers are off (especially on the drivers side).

JLD2k3 · 10-06-2011, 11:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pcy

I've changed the valve cover gaskets on '04 C320 (M112 engine). It was very straightforward and relatively easy. Passenger side is super easy since there are no obstructions. On drivers side, you will have to disconnect fuel line because it runs right on top of the valve cover.

While you are changing the valve covers, I recommend you to open and clean engine breathing chambers (they are attached to the valve covers). Valve cover gaskets are around $15 for each side.

Thanks. What do I need to do to disconnect the fuel line to make sure it is safe and not make a mess? Is it the braided steel hose to the right in the picture?

10-05-2011, 05:30 PM	#3
pcy Super Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: MA Posts: 847 Drives: '07 C280, '06 530i, '98 ML320	I've changed the valve cover gaskets on '04 C320 (M112 engine). It was very straightforward and relatively easy. Passenger side is super easy since there are no obstructions. On drivers side, you will have to disconnect fuel line because it runs right on top of the valve cover. While you are changing the valve covers, I recommend you to open and clean engine breathing chambers (they are attached to the valve covers). Valve cover gaskets are around $15 for each side. Attached Thumbnails Last edited by pcy; 10-05-2011 at 05:34 PM.

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10-05-2011, 04:37 PM	#2
ericgoh Junior Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Austin, Texas Posts: 56 Drives: 2003 Mercedes C240, 2009 Audi Q5	I believe the instructions are pretty much the same. I used those instructions to do my c240. Do you know if you need to do the recirculating covers as well? If so, removing the old sealant is a pain and can be very time consuming.

10-05-2011, 05:35 PM	#4
pcy Super Member Garage is empty, add now Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: MA Posts: 847 Drives: '07 C280, '06 530i, '98 ML320	By the way, if you need to change spark plugs, it's very easy to access the spark plugs when the valve covers are off (especially on the drivers side).

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10-06-2011, 11:03 AM