Even before I bought my car I read some of the info regarding the two small covers on the valve covers to get an idea as to what I might be up against. I've only had my '07 XF (51K miles) for six weeks and it has begun to leak, fairly big time (10" diameter oil slick).

I first peaked under the car with flashlight and mirror and of course the leak is at the center drain hole in the panel (built in drip pan?) beneath the engine. Meaning of course it could be leaking pretty much anywhere. After removing the upper plastic cover (1st time) it is obvious that the two smaller covers need to be 'attended to'.

However...do the cam covers themselves frequently leak? And if so, are there specific gaskets for them and easily found? And any special way to install them? (I've not gotten deeper into the original thread for the small cover oil leak situation so perhaps I should?). Also, what type of socket does one get for the cam cover bolts? I have one 3/8" Torx socket I got for installing Carrello rods and it doesn't look anything like a socket for these bolt heads.

Scary question, can I wash my engine down (not getting close to either fuse box) and live to talk about it? Nor do I want to disconnect the battery when doing so. Obviously the six coils (these are quite new to me, though am aware of them) might not be thrilled by water, but my plan would be to completely blow off all of the water and if the engine didn't start first time, blow some more perhaps along with heat.

Biba

 

From the supplied pictures, I'd highly recommend cleaning it up. Heck, I used a pressure washer on mine when I got it ( kinda looked like yours ) with no ill effects.
The gaskets for the cam covers are not known to have any leaking problems, as long as the torque on the bolts is correct. ( 10 Nm / 7 Ft # / 84 inch # )
You need to order a set of male and female Torx sockets, 3/8" drive is sufficient.

Through RockAuto :
http://www.lislecorp.com/divisions/p...s/?product=122
http://www.lislecorp.com/divisions/p...s/?product=126

A note on the vent covers : make absolutely sure you get all the old RTV sealant off before resealing them.

You can easily remove the valve covers for cleaning and resealing by removing the 6 coil pack connectors, then the 6 coil pack bolts and then laying them back out of the way. ( also the vacuum line on the drivers side ).

Might as well order a new pair of rubber gaskets for reinstallation after they are cleaned up and the vent covers are resealed.

( 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ SLK320 Valve Cover Gasket )

 

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