W210 Exhaust manifold Gasket????

[Gruffy]

Hi All,
Wondering if you can help me. I have a 2000 (X) E320 CDI. I noticed an exhaust type smell in the car recently and it sounds very, very rough when at low revs. The rev counter shows the engine is holding a constant rev count but there is also slight vibration. On startup this morning i lifted the bonnet and could see a fair amount of what looks like exhaust fumes coming from under the plastic engine cover. Would i be right to assume this is the exhaust manifold gasket, and if so how do i go about replacing this, is this a job for the garage or can i do this with basic DIY skills? Does anyone know if there is a Haynes Manual for this model yet??

 

[television]

First thing you must do is to lift off the plastic top cover and see where it is blowing. You have many things in the exhaust circuit.
to take the manifold off is not for the light hearted as you have to remove the cats. Have a look, could be just one of the many sensors.

Malcolm

 

[Gruffy]

Thanks Malcom, I'll try to get the cover off this week to investigate further. If i keep the air circulation on will this stop fumes being dragged into the car from under the bonnett?

 

[Parrot of Doom]

Could be wrong here but I think air into the cabin comes through the air intake at the front, near the radiator?

 

[Gruffy]

Quick update chaps,
Have had a better look as the problem is getting worse!! Was hoping to wait for the festive break so i would have some time to try to fix myself. If i open the bonnet it now sounds as though an outboard engine is running! Have booked it into a Merc Specialist on Friday. I will update the forum with the outcome (And cost!!!). Strange thing is that apart from the noise and vibration when the car is stationary, it drives like a dream, no power loss whatsoever....

 

[Gruffy]

Took the car into an independent specialist the day before Xmas eve. They investigated and found a blown seal on the injector for the 6th cylinder. This was stripped, the area cleaned from where coke had bulit up and re-assembled. Had the vehicle back within 4 hours, total cost £150.00. Can't fault service like that!!!!
Thanks for all of the input from you guys, much appreciated.