Noticed a small, but, very definite oil leak from the head gasket at the forward part of the block. There has been no significant oil loss on the dip stick nor has there been any evidence of oil in the coolant. The question is this: How long can I go before replacing the gasket? Or should I be asking what are the immediate signs of failure indicating that it's time to replace? Do I risk damage to the engine by waiting to replace the gasket? Would like to get through the holidays knowing that replacement requires significant dollars. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
John CH
1992 W124 300E

John, thats not we here refer to as a leak. The 103 engines "seep" oil around the front top cover, an annoying but not serious problem. Look back to the posts of the last few days any you will find this very discussion on the front cover. My 190 E 2.6 which has a similiar engine has seeped around the front cover for a couple of years. I will repair it when the water pump needs to be replaced. The problem is that the engine gets a little oily. ( like to keep my engine clean) It is a realtively easy and inexpensive fix. Good Luck.

Be thankful your leak's at the front...if it's at the back, it's likely a blown head gasket! I know; my 300TE's head was torn off just yesterday for this very reason. Valve job time!

Good luck, your leak's an easy one to fix (use no clear silicone; dealers are now using a superior sealant)

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All the best, Michael
500E
300TE

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Michael:
Be thankful your leak's at the front...if it's at the back, it's likely a blown head gasket! I know; my 300TE's head was torn off just yesterday for this very reason. Valve job time!

Good luck, your leak's an easy one to fix (use no clear silicone; dealers are now using a superior sealant)
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Michael,
Thanks for your encouraging information. I'm going to try the sealant.
John CH.

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by JDUB:
John, thats not we here refer to as a leak. The 103 engines "seep" oil around the front top cover, an annoying but not serious problem. Look back to the posts of the last few days any you will find this very discussion on the front cover. My 190 E 2.6 which has a similiar engine has seeped around the front cover for a couple of years. I will repair it when the water pump needs to be replaced. The problem is that the engine gets a little oily. ( like to keep my engine clean) It is a realtively easy and inexpensive fix. Good Luck.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

JDUB,
Thanks for your response. I'm happy that this leak is not as major as originally thought. Thanks.
John CH

That is very common on the 103 engine. A good sealant/mechanic will stop it. Like somebody said: Mercedes don't leak oil, they mark their territory...

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J.H.
'86 300E