valve cover gasket on m130 (1971 280SL)

[gunbarrel1]

I replaced the valve cover gasket on w113, m130.  Torqued the three bolts on top of valve cover evenly, in stages to 7 lb ft. Used SnapOn  inch pound torque wrench set to 84 lb. in.  The valve cover appears to move on cylinder head as engine runs, and new gasket tore on mating surface at driver's side rear of cylinder head. Any suggestions greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[dirkbalter]

Make sure the threads in the mounting brackets are good (retap) so the screws apply the force to the cover and don’t “seize” before pressure to the gasket is applied?

[Leester]

Its never happened to me but I understand that the "stands" that the screws screw into can also be bent. Apparently this can occur if the screws have been overtightened earlier, pulling the stands up. If so, the stands may require straightening or replacement to get the valve cover to seal correctly.  Lee

[gunbarrel1]

muchos gracias guys

[TJMart]

I replaced the valve cover gasket on w113, m130.  Torqued the three bolts on top of valve cover evenly, in stages to 7 lb ft. Used SnapOn  inch pound torque wrench set to 84 lb. in.  The valve cover appears to move on cylinder head as engine runs, and new gasket tore on mating surface at driver's side rear of cylinder head. Any suggestions greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Dirk and Lee are correct. I would also suggest that you buy a Mercedes gasket. I replaced mine that was an aftermarket with an OEM one and the fit and quality of material is so much better! No leaks after install as well.

Tony

[gunbarrel1]

Danke...

[gunbarrel1]

I am Tim, tech at Gunbarrel Imports

[gunbarrel1]

I have measured the clearance from the top of valve cover brackets/oil tower to the top of the camshaft.  The measurement is 22.12mm on the front, 22.18mm on the center, and 22.25mm on the rear.  Would .13mm make such a dramatic difference? I don't suppose there is a specification on measuring the heights of the brackets?

[gunbarrel1]

I have already re-tapped the threads, as Dirk suggested.

[stickandrudderman]

The valve cover stands can be sufficiently bent out of shape that they foul the camshaft. Thus when the engine is running they can move and cause your problem.
If it is the case then you should enjoy a much quieter engine once rectified!

[gunbarrel1]

If the towers are distorted, and must be replaced, should all of the cylinder head bolts be replaced? Should the head gasket be replaced, if the bolts are loosened and re-torqued? Thanks again.

[stickandrudderman]

Usually the towers can simply be bent back into shape without removing them. On very rare occasions the tower has lost a lot of strength through wear against the camshaft and must be replaced.

[gunbarrel1]

I am not sure how I missed it, but the rearmost tower is fractured on the driver's side. (USA, LHD) Does anyone know where to find these parts?

[ja17]

It is most likely a dealer item for a new one.  Try posting here for a good used one. For replacing the support, just remove the two head bolts which hold the support it in place. Clean and oil the threads of the two head bolts and re-install and torque to spec. These head bolts are not "stretch style bolts" and normally do not need to be replaced.

[gunbarrel1]

Thank you Joe.  I was concerned about the head bolts.  I have not looked up the torque specification yet, so I wasn't sure about stretch bolts.