Mystery Seepage on Left side of Engine Block

[Theclaw]

I've only had this car for a short time, hardly drove it more that just around town.  http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=18941.msg132335#msg132335

While I was changing the oil before putting it into storage for the winter I noticed some white seepage on the left side of the engine block.  I'm pretty sure this is a bad head gasket, but maybe this is something that's peculiar to these cars. Any advice would be helpful.

Probably should say that it's got a little over 100k miles.

Thank you,
Jeff


IMG_8880 by theclaw900, on Flickr




IMG_8879 by theclaw900, on Flickr

[Theclaw]

Been searching the forum and it seems like head gaskets are a common topic around here.  My next questions are 1) What's the risk of running the engine like this?  2) Worth trying to re-torque the head or with 100k is this something you have to do anyway?

Thanks again,

[mbzse]

...Worth trying to re-torque the head.../..

Jeff,
Typical head gasket leak, coolant is leaking out onto the side of your block. Possibly also inwards, into the cylinder.
A re-torque of the head bolts is useful, actually it is part of regular maintenance on engines of this era. Perform every 30 000 km or so.
One bolt at a time, loosen and torque to spec. Best done on a hot engine.
/Hans in Sweden

.

[jameshoward]

As Hans says. There's a set order in which to tighten the bolts. The info is probably on the site, if not in a Haynes manual or the Merc manuals of the period (BBB - Big Blue Book). If you want to do this and can't find the info, just shout.

[Theclaw]

Thanks. I've got a Haynes manual and picked up the Bentley Technical Companion.  Where would I find the Big Blue Book?

[awolff280sl]

how to retorque the head

http://www.sl113.org/wiki/Restricted/ValveAdjustmentTour#HeadBolt

[Theclaw]

Thanks Andy. That link was very helpful. The manual worth the price of full admission!

Jeff