I have had my 97 sl2 for about two years now and lately the oil consumption has went up and ive noticed oil on the block below the valve cover. when i recently changed the plugs and wires (routine maintenance) the outside cylinder on the passenger side had oil on top of the spark plug, not inside. If it makes any difference i did a blow by check not too long ago and all readings were within spec. I am wondering if this might be just a gasket that needs to be replaced? Any help would really be appreciated Thanks.

 

Indeed.

Cam Cover gasket is leaking.

You can search on Cam cover gasket or valve cover gasket in this forum -- I know there have been several discussions over which brands of these gaskets people prefer/have used.

Don't forget to replace your plug wires (at least the one) after you're done with the gasket replacement.

Majority of the oil consumption is likely internal (unless you have an obvious leak somewhere else (rear main seal, e.g.)), and is usually related to the oil control rings "freezing" in place and not sweeping the cylinder walls clean. Very common on these S car engines.

I'm guessing you're between 75K and 100k mi......

Stay religious on your oil changes and keep the oil topped off and you should be ok for quite a while....

Derf

 

Thanks alot, ill look into those other discussions. Hopefully ill be able to do that soon, i have another car until i am amble to fix it


The car actually has 155,000 miles.





Thanks again