Expensive sounding noises coming from the engine...

[bob1179]

Well, after putting almost a thousand miles on my freshly serviced SL60 over the past week it appears that a tapping noise has started emanating from the right hand bank of cylinders.

I am hoping that it isn't too serious but I reckon it may be down to either a dodgy hydraulic tappet(s), the variable valve controller or something far more expensive.

Anybody have any good experience of the M119 engine and it's foibles? If it does need a top end can anybody recommend me a good specialist (as I expect MB will charge me the earth).

I see John Haynes in West Sussex have good experience of the SL60, is it worth giving them a call?

As always, any advice welcome.

[anonymous-user]

Shouldn't be anything too drastic, the M119 is quite prone to sticking tappets. I've replaced quite a few over the years. You can usually pin point the offending one or stick a set in for extra peace of mind. The rest of the engine is pretty bombproof.......unlike the ignition system. Regular distributor cap, rotor arm and plug lead changes are a must to keep everything tip top.

[bob1179]

That's good news (ish)! Thanks for the advice, it sounds like it is a single hydraulic tappet. Though I'll find out when it goes into the workshop on Monday.

[r129sl]

I'd second this diagnosis. You may wish to replace them all.