How much (oil) is too much?

[Morganizer]

I bought a '94 L300 this spring with just under 100K on it. 100K maintenance had already been done, drive train is super clean.

Checked the oil and it was a tad high. About 1/4" above the high mark on the dip stick.

Next I thought the temperature was running higher than before, about 1/2 way up the gauge. Gets up there quick and stays there.

Noticed drips under the vehicle where I parked. Leak is high up on the right of the engine, running down and dripping off the join between the engine and torque converter.

Such a shame, could have eaten off this engine it was so clean.

So...

Can you confirm or deny my worst fears? That there's too much oil in the crank case, and it's forcing its way out any way it can, probably at the back of the head gasket.

Is this panic stations? Should I take it for a lube and filter immediately? Or just keep driving and let it seep out until it's back on the dipstick's reading? Or attempt to partially drain the oil pan? (perhaps cold, with the filler cap on so the air slows it down while I try to re-thread the stopper bolt?)

It has a Luber-Finer LFP805 filter in place, I'd prefer to get my $75 use from it. Not due for an oil change 'til the fall.

[jessef]

too much oil can blow the rear main seal. replacing it is somewhat of an ordeal and long job under a hoist.
as for oil running down the back, you may have the very common rear half moon seal leak on the valve cover gasket. happens to ALL 2.5's.
solution to the first, drain oil until and top up to full.
solution to 2nd, replace valve cover gasket and new half moon seals.

[username]

have you tried a turkey baster?