Valve cover gasket leak

Well, I know that my valve cover gasket is leaking, and needs to be replaced, I ordered it and it will be in soon.

My question is, could a valve cover gasket leak cause oil to get near the rear main seal, in places like that (and places that would indicate a rear main seal leak) or do I likely need to replace the rear main as well (I know that is a lot harder and really hope that is not what is needed) ?

Oil seems to be dripping down from valve cover area, but not sure if it could get oil in places like that, or if there is two things leaking here.

The truck is a 2001 Automatic 2.7l 4 cylinder tacoma, with around 273k miles.
I noticed the valve cover gasket leak 1k miles or so ago, so I'm hoping it is just that issue getting worse and not the rear main seal.

 

could a valve cover gasket leak get near the rear main seal? on a 4 cylinder, yes. but you would see a trail leading from the valve cover to the rear main. BUT, the leak would have to trail down through the bell housing that is bolted to the back of the engine as it covers the rear main seal. so, unlikely there.

can you give us pics of what your concerned about?

 

Mine was leaking at 94K your fortunate to go that long without having to replace the valve cover gasket. Before or after you change it, get a can of engine cleaner apply it when it's cold and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes and hose it off. You can get some leak detector fluid kit about $20/$25, add it to help you find where it's leaking at. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mK9RqhD2OfI