Valve cover leaking oil

I just noticed that one of the top 3 bolts in the center of my valve cover
is permeating oil around the edge of the bolt. It is so minimal that it is
hardly noticeable. Everything else is bone-dry. I just had the valve cover
gasket replaced last year, is this normal?
I have a 94 SL2 with 90K miles.

I have an appointment to have the gasket changed next week, but I am
concerned as I drive about 60 miles a day at highway speeds (above 70mph)
and am concerned about compression loss or engine damage. I am not low on
oil.

As long as I make sure the oil is at level, is this ok? Thanks.

 

What about in the base of the spark plug wells, any oil there?

Unless it was leaving puddles I wouldn't think it's anything but annoying.
It could be a result of the last gasket replacement (not done correctly), or
if I made a leap (wild guess) there could be increased cover pressure from
worn valve stem seals.

 

Valve covers are often prone to leak/seep especially on a 1.9L. Someone
must not have torqued it down right or missed a spot that required
sealant or didnt clean the surface very well.

Compression loss from a "valve" cover?

Yup.

 

well, I just wanted to be on the safe side. I feel much better knowing that
it is more of an annoyance then a prelude to a problem, especially when I am
now driving 60 miles a day at speeds up to and past 80mph sometimes. Thanx.

marx404

 

What about in the base of the spark plug wells, any oil there?

nope, bone dry. pulled out the plug wires, inspected them and the plug wells
too.

marx404