I posted this question on the Diesel list, but since its also applicable as a general question, I thought I'll post it here as well.

Lately I noticed that when I start my 95 E300D in the morning, It takes awhile (4-6 Seconds) for the oil gauge to peg at three. During this period you can hear the valve lifters clutter. So I know its starving for oil. I also noticed that when measured cold, my oil level has RISEN slightly from what it was several thousand miles ago. After this initial lag in oil pressure build-up, the oil pressure is fine If I start the car after 2-3 hours of having been parked, its also fine. Its only after extended periods, (more than a few hours) that this occurs. I am using Mobil 1 15W50 Synthetic

At first I thought its the oil filter, so I changed the filter, (Original Mercedes) as well as the two "O" rings on the oil filter shaft. No difference. Its acting identically as to what you would observe after an oil and filter change when it takes awhile for the pressure to build up again.

I am certain that the oil is draining out of the oil filter back into the crankcase. I suspect that this is the reason that my oil level has also risen slightly. Given that I replaced the filter (Mercedes Filter) and the 2 rubber "O" rings on the oil filter shaft? any ideas as to what would cause the oil to drain out of the oil filter housing back to the crankcase?

Thanks

Phil

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'95 E300 Diesel, 264,000 Miles. [Sold it]