tw2

I am going to do the spark plugs on my 55 since I doubt they have been done in the last 80,000 miles. Is it worth replacing the ignition leads (spark plug wires)?

If so I don't want to pay $250-300 the genuine ones seem to be. Is there anything wrong with the cheaper ebay ones? The prenco or bremi, ones are around $100-150 which is a lot more reasonable. Bosch is way too expensive and denso around $500.

Or there are magnecor leads. I have used them on the C32 and they were fine but I know others have had problems.

Anything else to bother doing at the same time?

I have already decided I will reseal the valve covers, the dealer has ok prices for the seals. I presume there are several non-replaceable aluminum bolts to order for the breather covers like the M112?

Wow the intake on the 55 engines is crazy, using the engine cover as part of the intake seems slightly messed up to me. Might look at making a needswings style solution.

Rudeney

I would not worry about the plug wires unless you are having specific issues. As for resealing the valve covers, yes, I think technically the bolts are "one time use" but I've reused them several times with no problems. It's not a critical thing like the pan. As for the gasket, definitely get the genuine MBZ part - the Victor Reinz parts are too flat and don't seal (I know this from experience!).

tw2

Thanks, I ordered the gasket through MB. It was about US$40 for each one which is probably good on this side of the world. Might need to order an oil filter soon. How often do people bother replacing the pollen and air filters when you do your own maintenance?

Rudeney

I usually check the pollen filter at each A/B service and then replace it when it looks dirty, which is about every other A/B service. As for the activated charcoal filter under the dash, I have never replaced it because it only gets used when the button is pressed, and I almost never do that. I think in the last two years, I might have used it for maybe 30 minutes total. Of course with my CLK being a cabriolet, it's sort of pointless to use the filter with the top down.

tw2

Yes I can see how the charcoal filter becomes slightly redundant when the top is down.

Had a better look at my leads, they are a mixture of brands and it all looks a bit messy. I am thinking of just replacing them and having it all clean, new, matching and knowing they are in good working condition. I know you can ruin them even just removing them especially without the correct tool. Might go with bosch ones.

Glyn M Ruck

Leads on M112/113 engines do not last forever. They live in a hostile environment. I usually recommend replacing them as a set the minute the car starts logging misfires even prior to CEL threshold.