Oil leak. Problem?
 

What's the issue with MB diesels dripping oil? I'm looking for a 300SDL and this one looks good, but has a oil leak.

Are oil leaks common and should it be a concern? Are they an easy fix?

For really picky owners MB even produced an 'oil leak diaper' absorbant pad that can be draped underneath the engine. Diesels always push a little oil and the pans are never completely dry, but its negligible. Probably a question of high crankcase pressure. But ask the seller exactly how much oil the engine leaks, could be just an occasional drop on the garage floor.... no problem.

Not all diesels leak oil. that is its not common on NEW diesels.
Many of the ones that do leak are well into the 200,000 mile range and have had no seals or hoses replaced.
You may have to spend something in excess of $1000 to fix all the leaks. Why so high you say? Well, if the rear crankshaft seal is leaking you have to pull the engine, you may as well replace the front seal and the oil pan gasket(s) while you at it.

had a real bad pan leak on a 240D I sold to a friend... turned out to be just a 25 cnet fix.. just needed a new compression washer on the frain plug..



bennett

an awful lot of money
 

Up to $3800 and rising-it's a nice looking one, but with the even the problems listed(dead central locking system, moonroof alignment, power antenna problems) I'd be skeptical-also beware the super low brand new feedback rating-a sure sign of a true used car salesman!!! :pukeface:

1983 dt 300
 

is it common to have a puddy of oil everywhere i park? has 250,000 on the motor, checked everwhere, need some ideals where to look at? new owner of a really nice DT 300 1984!!!!

Its always nice to have a bone dry outside on your motor.

I spill more oil when I change it or top up than the motor leaks.

If its leaving a puddle over night its time to fix the leak. Normally just the sump plug.

They leak a lot less than most Jags.

If there are no leaks at 250k miles, chances are the motor has been out & so every seal replaced.

turbo drainback "o-ring" such a pain on older motors.