Engine Number

I've looked on the left side at the rear of the engine for the elusive engine number. Maybe I'm dumber than dirt....or just blind.....I can't find the engine number. I've looked with lights, mirrors, etc. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks.

[jfsehl]

Keep in mind that the engine number is on the top of the block (just below the port (nautical term) side head. On my 1980 SL I had to brush old dirt and grease out of the way (my engine is not really that bad...the the location is off the beaten path...cleaning-wise) to see the number. It was not an easy task, but I feel better have written down that number. I even remember it (which shows where I'm at). #116 984 10 000960

Jim,
Thanks for the info.......unfortunately, I still haven't been able to find the engine number. I have degreased and cleaned where I think (?) it would be, but I still can't find any marking of any kind.
Your last reply was pretty descriptive, and I appreciate your help. If you could explain the location with reference to the valve cover, I might have better luck.

[jfsehl]

Position yourself at the left front fender (driver's side in left hand drive countries). Look down at the firewall end of the left valve cover. The left valve cover is bolted to the left engine head. You find the bottom of the left valve cover at the firewall...and then look about 2 inches lower (at the bottom of the left engine head at the firewall). The engine number is facing you on the engine block right at the base of the left engine head (below the left valve cover). It is not easy to look down at that angle. You may have to slightly crawl into the engine compartment (depending you size). Good luck....Good luck. You'll feel good, once you have that engine number written down. Like I said, mine is 116 984 10 000960. The pattern will be the same for yours though the numbers will be different. Just look waaaaaaaay down below the back of the left valve cover at the firewall.