My mechanic says my fuel pump body is leaking motor oil and needs to be replaced as no parts are available to fix the pump. He showed me a plate on the bottom of the pump with small bolts on it that according to him is where the leak is coming from.

How difficult is it to remove the pump and replace the leaky gasket or will this approach not work? I have no other problems with this motor. It is a 1991 350SDL with 126K miles it. I am the origianal owner so I know the miles are correct.

If the pump has to be replaced what is a ballpark figure for the job.

Thanks for any answers or advice.

There are covers on the side and bottom of the pump, the feed pump has a gasket and there is a plate in the rear. All these have gaskets or o-rings that can be purchased through MB.

The big o-ring where the pump seals to the motor also leaks oil and is available. It is difficult if not impossible to pinpoint some of these leaks. I might recommend using one of the florescent dye additives to the oil, drive it, then remove the pump and view the area with the black light. If still inconclusive then relace all the seals; the most expensive was $6.75.

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Steve Brotherton
Owner 24 bay BSC
Bosch Master, ASE master L1
26 years MB technician

[This message has been edited by stevebfl (edited 11-01-2000).]

Steve:

How much time does it take to remove and reinstall the pump?

Thank you for your advice.

If you're trying to find the leak and don't want to spend the money on dye and a light, try using the white foot spray method. (I don't know where if found this tip.) First clean the area and dry it overnight. Then spray it with the aerosol foot spray until it turns a frosty white. Start the engine and watch the built-in black dye ooze out where the leak is :cool:

Gary

Book says 4.5 to 6 hours depending on the book. Cleaning and replacing covers could be another hour or more depending what you find.

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Steve Brotherton
Owner 24 bay BSC
Bosch Master, ASE master L1
26 years MB technician

Steve:

Thank you very much for the info.....