The issue with the merc engine can be slightly more than minor seepage...
I'm sure you realise that the same basic problem can have radically different consequences depending on engine package design specifics.
While being a simple issue, the way the problem with this particular engine escalates has to do with the way the injector is set into a snug bore through the valve cover and deep into the cylinder head. Basically the injector gets glued into its spot by the seepage. The aluminum valve cover is very thin, and any prying often cracks the cover. The injector hold down bolt is a very long 6mm thing that has been known to shear if it's threads are also gummed up. There are also instances of the injector breaking in the bore... And there's reports of cracking into the cylinder heads water jacket if the hold down bolts bore is not very, very thoroughly cleaned out of any residue at the base of the hole.
So like i said... To me, a long time mechanic, it's not the end of the world... But... It has the potential to escalate into an expensive repair very quickly. So a proper inspection, by a well qualified tech, is money well spent.
To the OP... Congrats on finding a low millage one! Mine had 54k on it when i got it this summer, and i now have 62k on it. I think it's a great choice!
I'm sure you realise that the same basic problem can have radically different consequences depending on engine package design specifics.
While being a simple issue, the way the problem with this particular engine escalates has to do with the way the injector is set into a snug bore through the valve cover and deep into the cylinder head. Basically the injector gets glued into its spot by the seepage. The aluminum valve cover is very thin, and any prying often cracks the cover. The injector hold down bolt is a very long 6mm thing that has been known to shear if it's threads are also gummed up. There are also instances of the injector breaking in the bore... And there's reports of cracking into the cylinder heads water jacket if the hold down bolts bore is not very, very thoroughly cleaned out of any residue at the base of the hole.
So like i said... To me, a long time mechanic, it's not the end of the world... But... It has the potential to escalate into an expensive repair very quickly. So a proper inspection, by a well qualified tech, is money well spent.
To the OP... Congrats on finding a low millage one! Mine had 54k on it when i got it this summer, and i now have 62k on it. I think it's a great choice!
