[FrozenMBZ]

Found this today while changing my spark plugs. Looks like the spark plugs were never replaced. This worries me. The spark plugs were wet and had metal grind on it. The car is running but it is making some weird noise now. Coming from the engine. There was no weird noise coming from the engine before replacing the plugs. I am getting the engine/transmission oil change today and see if I find more metal particles in the engine/transmission oil. What is your take on it? What should I look for or need to do?

Thanks.

 

[Jayare]

Those appear to be more of a victim of leaking valve cover gaskets (those that surround the plug holes) than anything else. Evacuate all the grit and grim you can in those holes. Replace the valve cover gaskets. They've hardened up by now. What plugs did you use as replacements? I'm of the opinion the new sounds may be a bit of paranoia at this point.

 

[FrozenMBZ]

Thanks for responding.

Got the engine/transmission oil changed. The mechanic found no metal particles in the oil. I have ordered the value gasket cover. I am sure there is diy somewhere here.

 

[Jayare]

Changing the valve cover gasket is a straight forward DIY project. The process is explained in the FSM and links to it are in our DIY sticky.

 

[TexFinn]

This the DIY I used when ai changed mine a few weeks ago.

Pelican Technical Article - Mercedes-Benz W124 - Valve Cover Gasket Replacement

 

[FrozenMBZ]

Thanks everyone!

I changed the gasket today. Had to do it twice since I didnt know where those half moon shaped gasket went. Everything is fine now. Here is the pic my engine. What is that part called?

Also, in the second pic you will see the metal is smooth ...looks it was grinded down. Is that normal or there is something happening in the engine?

Thanks for your tips and help.

 

[Jayare]

The motor looks very clean in the valve train. You have no problem. Can lobes are supposed to be smooth.