comptronix

I was at Mercedes yesterday for an aliment and to have my a/c checked out.
When I was done I was told I have an oil leak coming from the valve cover gasket , and that this is a pretty big job since one normally changes all the hose while doing this job. So I just wanted some input on if this was really needed or just MB being MB .

Gundo

This is a very common issue with w208's. There has been a lot of discussion and some diy write ups on these boards. Just use the search function and you should get a lot of info. It is a fairly easy diy with just a few common tools needed. I believe it's 3 or 4 hoses that should be changed as well but don't have to be. What did they quote you for the job?

Here is one that I had bookmarked.
https://mbworld.org/forums/clk55-amg...er-gasket.html

Gundo

Keep in mind that the thread link I dropped is a diy for a clk55.

comptronix

I have read those and it seems like a straight forward job was just wondering about the hoses.
They didn't since I told him straight out I am going to to do the job myself.

Do you know if there is a kit for the gasket and hoses ?

Serndipity

The crankcase breather hoses, attached to the valve covers, become brittle over time and crack while removing them from the valve cover.

It is recommended to replace the three hoses while doing a valve cover gasket job.

There are complete gasket/hose repair kits using genuine MB parts.

Here is an example.

http://www.ecstuning.com/Mercedes_Be...ver/ES2719256/

Note: The kit in the above link is for a 2001 CLK320, so be sure to use your specific model information to find the one for your car.

jonUF02

The breather hoses will be very dry/brittle and fall apart as you remove them. There is at least 1 very nice write-up with pics to replace the gaskets. There is some debate about using extra gasket goo or not. I personally did one side last year because it was leaking and causing a burning oil smell. I did not use any extra gasket maker goo, just the OEM gasket which I purchased from AutohausAZ web site, they are about $25 per side I think. They also have all the breather hoses and couplings for cheap, probably another $25 for all of them, just replace them. You're talking less than $100 if you DIY both gaskets and all the hoses and couplers.

You will know when you need to do it because you will smell burnt oil when you stop the car. It's not a bad idea to do it if you see any leak there, just block a Saturday and get it done. I spent extra time cleaning the valve cover like new because I'm like that. Also be careful with the torque on the cover bolts, would not want to damage one of those, you don't have to strong arm it at all.

myworld

I need to do this.

AutohausAZ-Mike

Thank you for mentioning us!

We carry both the original and aftermarket parts to get that job done.
The job itself is pretty simple as long as you take your time and follow the
step by step on the DIY.

Here are the links for for the valve cover gaskets and hoses:

AutohausAZ - Valve cover


AutohausAZ - Breather hoses

Disclaimer: Make sure to check the year and model of the vehicle before placing the order.

dlbehrns

This thread is a bit dated however, in replacing the valve cover gaskets on my 320 I find that there is no gasket cement on the originals. So I question the use of Permatex(I have red).I put the passenger side cover back on without any cement.

When dealing with the drivers side I ran into what appears to be the windshield washer line that goes across the firewall side of the cover the prevents me from lifting the cover up and off. Wondering if there is an easy way around this without having to drain the entire washer reservoir. TIA dlb

jonUF02

Just pull the washer hose off if it's in the way. Nothing will come out.

You don't necessarily have to use sealant, but it's extra insurance in the corners.

dlbehrns

Thanks Jon. I did pull the hose off and windsield washer fluid did come pouring out. I had to drain the ww/tank. And I put the covers back on sans the gasket seal. The gaskets were new and a bit tacky so I've got my fingers crossed they will seal. I installed new plugs while I was at it. Sheew! What a labor intensive job. And I only have 6 cylinders.

Serndipity

Just bought the plugs and off-set boot removal tool and I'm about to do mine as well (replacing original factory plugs after 15 years and 92K miles).

Did your old plugs come out OK?

After undoing the coil packs, did you have to remove anything else (e.g. passenger side air box, driver side washer reservoir etc.)?

jonUF02

Don't forget all the breather hoses, especially the one that attaches to the left side cover. No doubt yours will crumble.

I don't recall removing anything other than coils, wires, breather tubes, but it's been a while.