Any ideas on this one? I have a 1986 280SL, engine is a 110.990 with roughly 140k on it. Daily driver, overall good condition.

I am getting small oil leak in the front of the engine. I have searched thoroughly to rule out any other possible fluids. The leak is in the vicinity of the front main seal, does not appear to be any oil above this point. This area is very difficult to access and see. I have checked all around the valve cover (nothing) and all around the head to block seal with the exception of right in the front which cannot be seen.

Oil consumption is minimal, I check it regularly. I see a few drops every few days on the garage floor, and get a small accumulation of oil around and below the front seal.

Car runs perfect, no degradation of performance or economy.

If it is the front seal leaking, what are the possible remedies? If it is the head gasket leaking near the seal, how about repairs to this? If I have to get into pulling the engine, I might as well do a complete rebuild.

What are the ramifications of running without fixing this (maintaining the proper oil level of course and monitoring the oil consumption) ?

Any thoughts are appreciated.

Thanks