Timing Chain Tensioner leaking oil externally? (W208 M111.975)

[jamesmc]

Doing a few jobs on the engine at once as I am finally getting around to replacing the (cracked) exhaust manifold. Whilst it is off I thought I would investigate an engine oil leak on the same side of the engine. The leak was appearing from below/behind the mounting plate for the supercharger/alternator. Pulled off the Supercharger, Alternator and mounting plate. This now gives me a clear view of the area which I didn't have with all the units in place.

From what I can see the source of the leak appears to be the Timing Chain tensioner.

Couple of questions:

1) Has it been known for timing chain tensioners to leak engine oil externally.
2) Is it more than likely that the seal for the body of the tensioner is duff and will need replacing?

I would probably replace the whole unit rather than bugger around resetting the old unit and replacing the seal only to have to possibly revisit the tensioner in the near future. The reason I say this is that sometimes, on start-up after the engine hasn't run for a week or so, there is a slight rattle ( a second or two) from the engine until (I guess) the engine oil pressure/flow comes into play. Which is why I suspect tensioner may be it's way out anyway.

Any thoughts, one way or another, on this would be helpful.

 

[Phoenix]

Hi Jamesmc

I have heard that a misaligned Seal will cause a leak on the tensioner as the seal needs to be kept in place will tightning. If the tensioner is noisy suppose it would be beneficial to replace it now as removing the entire side assembly is tiring

 

[jamesmc]

Phoenix

Thanks for the response and the image. Just what I needed.

Cheers!