When you get some more of that free cash, could you send me some of it? ;>)
Wilton
----- Original Message -----
From: "Peter Frederick" <psf...@earthlink.net>
To: "Mercedes Discussion List" <mercedes@okiebenz.com>
Sent: Wednesday, November 21, 2012 11:01 PM
Subject: Re: [MBZ] OM 603 head gasket
Some notes from my head gasket job a couple years back:
Make absolutely sure that oil supply pipe is free of the block when
you attempt to remove the head, mine leaked after straightening it
back out, never did get fixed (car was wrecked soon after).
You need all new head bolts, if you re-use them they always fail to
keep the gasket sealed. Gas engines are fine, the diesel is not.
Absolutely check the valve guides, they are a known weak point. Easy
to fix. Make absolutely POSITIVE that the machine shop installs them
to factory specs (very little clearance) -- it's common around here to
want them very sloppy for some reason. I got a rebuilt head with at
least 0.010" side clearance, had to have the job redone before we
could use the head (and new valve seats to boot).
For just a gasket change, leave the injectors in, don't clean the
pistons, and don't clean the head except in the seal area. Knocks
like crazy for a couple days if you shine it all up. If you need to
check for cracks, clean it, otherwise leave the carbon on.
You can leave the turbo and exhaust manifold in place, much easier.
However, you should also check the turbo for condition -- if there is
ANY front to back play or roughness in rotation, the bearings are
shot. It' not impossible for the front seal to be OK and the rear to
leak, the damage is usually done by coked oil on the main shaft and it
can eat out the rear seal first.
Good luck -- your car will run MUCH better after you put the new
gasket in. I need one as well, but it will have to wait until I get
the suspension fixed, I'm out of free cash.
Peter
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