R129 : M104 cylinder head oil leak/gasket question

[Pcn1]

I'm chasing down a small oil leak around the front of the cylinder head (not the timing cover leak, that's being dealt with separately) and I found this online article:

Mercedes R129 SL 320 (M104) Timing Cover Leak – Alternative Fix - Mercedes Gen-In

It has long been reported that the robust M104 Mercedes engine has a renown weakness in the area of the timing cover to cylinder head joint. Because of a design weakness, it is common if not obligatory for these engines to leak at this point. The often publicised method of repair is to remove the

www.mercedes.gen.in

At the end of the article the author talks about this VVT cam cover being suspect for an addition leak. I removed mine and there isn't any paper gasket material left, just some dark residue on the surfaces which I'm assuming must be a liquid sealant used in the factory ?
Therefore its ok to use oil resistant RTV sealant on this cover to effect a repair ?

Any advice welcome.

Thanks

 

[carat 3.6]

RTV is fine, just dont use too much. Be sure that none can get inside the timing cover.

 

[ray_hennig]

At the end of the article the author talks about this VVT cam cover being suspect for an addition leak. I removed mine and there isn't any paper gasket material left, just some dark residue on the surfaces which I'm assuming must be a liquid sealant used in the factory ?
Therefore its ok to use oil resistant RTV sealant on this cover to effect a repair ?

I may be mistaken but, on my M104.980 engine (earlier than yours), the gasket under the cam cover provides the seal, without any gunge. No problems with mine.

But I do have a leak from the timing case gasket. I may replace it myself as I have a new MB gasket. That needs some special sealant at the ends of the gasket, apparently.

I might get our local specialist to do it!

RayH