grcclk320

Hi,
I have a 2002 CLK320 with 140,000 miles on it. It's had a very minor oil leak for some time. My mechanic says it's leaking from the oil level sender and wants $600 fix it.

QUESTION: Since the sender/sensor is working fine, can't I just drop the oil pan, install a new rubber washer on the sender/sensor and be done?

Seems crazy to replace a functioning unit just for a $1 washer. In either case, I'll do the work myself, just wondering if I'm missing something by not replacing the unit.

Appreciate your thoughts and help. thanks

ItalianJoe1

He's most likely covering himself. Often, if the seal is leaking the sensor is leaking internally as well. You may change the seal and still have the sensor fail in a month after the repair, or still leak through the connector after changing the seal.

grcclk320

That's what I was wondering about. Didn't know they could leak internally.

Since I'm dropping the oil pan, what is the best sealant to use when I put it back together?

Thanks for the info. Will be changing it next week. Appreciate the prompt response.

Rudeney

FYI, a MY2002 CLK320 is a W208, but that's OK in this case as it's the same engine as the W209 CLK320. In terms of sealant, MBZ sells its own stuff which is basically Loc-Tite black RTV. Us that, or any quality black RTV. The MBZ sealant comes in a tube made to fit their special dispenser tool (basically a small "caulk gun"). Save yourself $100 and just cut a piece of PVC pipe to fit inside the back of the tube and use like a giant hypodermic plunger. The key to a good seal is to clean-clean-clean the surfaces. MBZ and others make a solvent to help remove old RTV, but you MUST follow that with a prep cleaner to remove all traces of that. I generally just use a plastic blade to scrape off what I can and then rub with a microfiber cloth to get the rest. Acetone can help, too.