How do I replace breather grommet?
 

I've got an oily mess forming around the base of the breather hose on the top of the valve cover (602 engine). I'm assuming I just need to replace the grommet...is that correct? If so, how exactly do I do that? Seems like it should be simple/obvious, but I thought I'd ask those of you who've done it before.

Thank you.

Your OM602 engine is similar to my OM603. All you have to do is to remove the hose and pry out the old grommet. Check first to see if the old grommet has hardened from age; if so, it may want to break into pieces and fall into the valve area. Work slowly and carefully. You may want to hold an operating shop vacuum hose next to the grommet to suck up any loose pieces as you gradually work the old one free.

That was my fear. So I would assume that, if a piece WERE to fall in, I shouldn't start the engine but would have to remove the valve cover to fish it out.

Or would a small piece of rubber simply get pulverized in the engine?

I guess a related question is: do I even need to replace it, if it's just a matter of the mess? (which I can wipe off periodically)

I suggest that you buy a new grommet and a new valve cover gasket, pull the valve cover off, do your valves, fix the grommet.

Sincerely,

PE

602 valves don't need to be adjusted....so I never have any reason to remove the valve cover.

It's easy to replace the grommet without bits falling in: drain all fluids, hold the car upside with one hand and use needle nose pliers to grab the grommet and pull it out. If it cracks and falls to pieces, the bits just fall on the floor. Set the car down and put the fluids back in.

This is how I did mine. Learned the trick from my friend, Chuck.

LMFAO.

You can check chain stretch while the valve cover is off. Call the neighbors over to see how clean the valve train is despite the black oil. If you use good quality oil like I know you do, there won't be sludge like you find in many gasser valve covers.

Sixto
87 300D

My neighbors are not savvy enough to appreciate such things.

There Are Lots of Savvy people in Rhode Island
 

How long and hard did your Detective Agency have to look to find an area
where the average I.Q. is so low ?

('Cause We Know You ain't putting forth THAT much effort looking.)