I was lamenting my leaking P/S pump and I found a oil soaked fabric hose (1/2" dia.) in the same area. On end attaches to a port at the front of the engine, about 1:00 above the Timing scale. The hose then travels along the inner left front fender and then underneath the steering box and disappears.

Can anyone give me a clue what this hose does? Does it transport engine oil to ????.

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1970 280S M130 engine- good runner
1971 250 M130 engine- #2 rod bearing, gone
1971 280SE (blown engine,parts car)
1977 German 280S W116-only 33 years old

I think it goes to the fuel vapour recovery system. Mine was disconnected for the first 6 months of our relationship with out any loss of oil. My guess is that area of the crankcase is below atmospheric pressure often enough to draw the fuel vapours from the little box in the trunk.

Could be wrong though.

Michael

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Usta haves '69 250/8, '76 280C, 1971 250C 114.023, 1976 450SEL 116.033
Current have, 1983 300SD 126.120

Not sure which line you're referring to, but if the surface of the hose is uniformly oily, it's time for a new hose. Take it to a hydraulic shop and have them make a new one. I found these to be vastly superior in quality to my preferred internet parts house's version. Less expensive as well.

I think you nailed it 250 Coupe. Seems like a very reasonable explanation.

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1970 280S M130 engine- good runner
1971 250 M130 engine- #2 rod bearing, gone
1971 280SE (blown engine,parts car)
1977 German 280S W116-only 33 years old

I concur with 250C. That is exactly what it is.

Peter

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