So, I've replaced the valve cover gasket, re-torqued everything down, etc. Still I get leaking in spots, and quite a decent amount at the rear of the block near the half-circle of rubber (typical spot).

I've replaced the breather hoses, etc.....

The only thing I haven't done is replace the cruddy peeling paint off the valve cover. I don't think that's the cause...

What could be causing this continued leakage? Do I just need to order another gasket and try again or is there something I'm missing?


-tp

Maybe the valve cover is bent or has a faulty seal guide so the seal wont set properly. Take it off and test it on a straight edge or a flat table, check the seal guides as well.

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You using a cheap gasket or OEM? I've learned my lessons with crap ones, they don't seem to seal properly.

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I'm not a doctor, but I'll have a look.

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The M103 was designed to leak from the factory.




I had to...

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[QUOTE=pawoSD;2085097]The M103 was designed to leak from the factory.




I thought that was only if they came with the option "External Lubrication System"

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Prost!

Typical torque specs for MB cam cover gaskets are quite low. For my 117 engine, the spec is 3 to4 Nm. Over torquing often produces distortion and subsequent leaking If your spec is similarly low you will need a 1/4" drive torque wrench since the typical 3/8" drive wrench is not sensitive enough at the low end.

You should also replace the copper crush washers under the bolt heads.

Good luck and let us know how it comes out.

[QUOTE=Hirnbeiss;2085183]That was part of their new, improved, rust-proofing system. It's designed to slowly coat the entire undersde of your car with oil.

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[QUOTE=Dee8go;2085245]The original system came on 617 equipped vehicles....they then improved it for M103 vehicles....to have a more even oil distribution.

__________________
-diesel is not just a fuel, its a way of life-
'15 GLK250 Bluetec 118k - mine - (OC-123,800)
'17 Metris(VITO!) - 37k - wifes (OC-41k)
'09 Sprinter 3500 Winnebago View - 62k (OC - 67k)
'13 ML350 Bluetec - 95k - dad's (OC-98k)
'01 SL500 - 103k(km) - dad's (OC-110,000km)
'16 E400 4matic Sedan - 148k - Brothers (OC-155k)

Well, I started off using really low torque, as you wouldn't expect to need much with a rubber gasket. That didn't work. So, I gently and evenly applied more torque. That didn't work either.

I didn't realize there were crush washers involved. I'll have to look into that. I guess I'll buy a new gasket and some new crush washers and give it a try. While I have the cover off, I'll strip it down and get it powder coated....


I'll post back when I've tried some of those things.


Thanks,

-tp