W126 - Engines

[McLaren]

Hi guys!

My 88 560 SEL has been guzzling oil quite regularly now. It has become progressively worse over the last month or so.

Could you tell me if putting a new head with valves etc (Metric Motors) is a DIY job?

The 2 local mechanics I have been to somehow aren't very willing to do the valve stem seals and both claimed I should get a new engine! That is big bucks!

Also, does anyone here have any experience in AMG engines into a 560SEL? Can it be done?

Also, my clock suddenly died yesterday! Not sure if it is the darn cold in NJ or just another thing ..... all fuses are good. I checked them twice to be sure. I pulled the panel out too and all wires seem plugged in.

Your advice is greatly appreciated.

K

[jcantor]

McLaren,

You've left out some info that might be telling:

How many miles?
Any signs of leaks? Smoke?
If you have smoke, under what circumstances?

When I put valve stem seals in my 560 a year or so ago, the smoke disappeared and oil consumption went from 1qt/1000 miles to not needing any top off between 4000 mile oil changes.

If you want, send me an email off-list and perhaps we could get together and trouble shoot your situation.

jlc

[Tomguy]

New valve stem seals will almost certianally cure your engine's smoking problem.
Unlike American smokers, an MB which smokes doesn't always need rings. In fact, smoking M117's rarely need rings, new seals do the trick quite well. The bottom end on an m116 or m117 engine is typically good for 500K miles, and that's on the low side!

Of course, this is all assuming that you've never run her low on oil, run her hot, or let her go too long between oil changes!