My 1987 560 SEL (155K) appears to be leaking oil every time I park it. It is destroying my garage floor, let alone my blacktop driveway. The problem is that I can't tell conclusively where the leak is coming from and whether or not it is transmission fluid or engine oil. Surprisingly every time I check these levels with the dipstick they are at normal levels. The underside of the engine and torque converter are covered in an oil film.

I had the engine rear seal replaced about a year ago however the shop has since closed. Any advice or ideas would be appreciated

I think that the front transmission seal does tend to go on these cars, but first we should figure out what is leaking! Give the engine a good wash in order to make spotting a leak easier. Leave some newspaper under the car so you can identify the fluid - transmission fluid is red (or it should be...), and used motor oil is dark brown. How are your fluid levels?

Hello:

I have a 1986 420SEL, that has an oil leak that appears to be coming from the rear of the engine and in front of the transmission.

I am on the verge of taking mine to Mercedes to replace the rear engine seal too. When mine drips, I notice it in the level of the oil stick.

I was able to get it up on a lift to examine it up close but could still not determine where it was dripping. What did they tell you when you had your seals done and how much did it cost you? Did they have to remove the transmission to get to the engine seal?

Bill

I had the front transmission seal replaced for CAN$325 (~US$220) parts/labour at a local transmission shop that specializes in MB. Front what I know, maintaining the right amount of transmission fluid in the car is crucial - i.e., you shouldn't "burn" any tran fluid, the way motor oil is used. I don't have much experience with motor oil leaks.

I am starting to think that the oil leak is coming from the transmission. Ichecked the dipstick carefully and noticed that I was about 1/4 inch below the low mark. I had previously topped it off a month ago

Marc P