Hey guys,

I need some advice/options. I have a persistent oil leak originating from the camshaft seal inside the timing chain cover/housing. Thus far, I have replaced the camshaft seal numerous times, I've installed a new timing chain cover/housing and I've replaced the valve cover gasket as well.

My mechanics have replaced the camshaft seal three times for me (last 2 times for free) but the leak persists. Over time, the oil will foul the distributor cap and rotor enough to cause a noticeable rough idle (the engine runs perfectly otherwise). I periodically remove the cap and clean the cap and rotor but this is obviously not a desirable remedy. There was also a leak coming from the timing chain cover where it mates to the engine block, along the lower part, but the new cover and some MB sealant cured that leak. The volume of oil lost has gone down dramatically since I fixed that, but some is still leaking via the camshaft seal.

I'm at a loss as to how to cure this problem. I'm guessing perhaps the camshaft itself has worn down such that it no longer fits the timing chain cover smoothly and no amount of new seals is going to stop the leak? The engine does have 300K on it and everything is original.

Short of buying a new camshaft (and hence probably rockers, etc. may as well do the entire head while I'm at it) is there anything I'm missing?

Any advice would be appreciated.

__________________
Chris
2007 E550 4Matic - 61,000 Km - Iridium Silver, black leather, Sport package, Premium 2 package
2007 GL450 4Matic - 62,000 Km - Obsidian Black Metallic, black leather, all options
1998 E430 - sold
1989 300E - 333,000 Km - sold
1977 280E - sold
1971 250 - retired

"And a frign hat. They gave me a hat at the annual benefits meeting. I said. how does this benefit me. I dont have anything from the company.. So they gave me a hat." - TheDon