TxBenzIn

I had the dealer do a LOF, and a MultiPoint Inspection a couple weeks ago. They noted that the Valve Cover Gasket needs to be replaced. I looked on both sides and didn’t really see any signs of leaking. There is nothing on the garage floor either.

I do notice that after I park it, I can faintly smell a burning smell. Could that be related?

maw suggested I swap the plugs and do the gasket at the same time so I’ll get that scheduled with my indi- just curious if it’s related or just how these cars smell after a good run.

HLG600

M113 valve covers have 2 parts. The main seal is via a replaceable rubber gasket. There is also an upper part that is sealed via (optimally) an MB-specific RTV.

That faint burning smell is most likely from a small leak making contact with the exhaust manifold(s).

Plugs on this platform are side-access and there are 16 of them. Can confirm it is notably easier to replace them with the valve covers off.

marcd7tx

Those M113 valve covers are finicky, I have replaced those on my old SL500 and on my E500. They still seep, but don't overtighten the torx bolts to try to solve that. Just resealed the breathers after a multi stage cleaning and using MB sealant, but they are seeping as well. Upsetting to say the least. Some say use only the MB gaskets, as opposed to the OE aftermarket AND to add some sealant to the valve covers BEFORE seating the valve cover gaskets into the VCs to ensure a solid seal.

Plugs can obviously be changed with the VCs on, but much easier while they are off especially since, depending on age/mileage, those ignition coil boots can be a pain to remove off the plugs.

My E500 only "smells" when the above is the case. GL

TxBenzIn

Thank you both - great insight.

BMBLBEE

Can anyone provide part numbers for the MB valve cover gaskets and RTV? My 2003 passenger side is leaking and I need it fixed to pass a government inspection to register the car.
Thanks
Bob

marcd7tx

I'm pretty sure MB rebrands the Loctite SI5900 for the breather reseal. The MB sealant is

003989982010

PNs for the valve covers are: the one ending in 321 is for the passenger side where the EGR is located.

1130160321 and 1130160221

But if you're just replacing the valve cover gaskets you could just use something from the auto part store. The sealant is specific for redoing the breathers.

TxBenzIn

I found this kit at FCPEuro. Overkill or convenience?

Valve Cover Gasket Kit (FCPeuro)

BMBLBEE

THANKS - this will be a great help.

The kit noted might be overkill for what I'm trying to repair and shipping to Canada is usually an issue as well but thanks for the link.
Cheers,
Bob

Dubai80

Oil leak on plugs at Cylinder 2. Added (stop oil leak) STP brand and will check ASAP if leak is still present.