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I get 1-2 drips overnight from my ‘78 Delta 88 with an Olds 350 in it. 112,000 miles.
At first I was suspecting the rear main because of where the oil appears underneath. But then someone said these engines are more likely to leak from valve covers. So I took a better look under the hood.
Most of the area below each valve cover is dry. But there is one spot on each side that’s wet. Photos attached.
What do you think? Are the valve covers the source of my drips? It’s hard to follow the path all the way down.
Judging from the pictures you've posted, I wouldn't expect that amount of leakage to result in drops on the floor every night. It looks wet but not that wet. Also, this looks like the front of the engine and your post says you assumed the leak was the rear main so are the drops near the front of the engine or the back? We need more info.
Purchase a small container of engine oil fluorescent dye at your local automotive parts supply store - they all carry it. Preferably wipe down (spray w/ Blaster, Engine Cleaner, whatever) best you can. Take car for 30 minute drive. Visualize the oil (in the dark) w/ a UV black light - also, available at same stores which sell fluorescent dye (they have pen-light sized fluorescent flashlights). Removes the guess work. Get under the engine to visualize.
