So I have a 2001 f250 with a V10 @ 350k. Has a pretty steady oil leak (~1.5 qt/2 months), and the mechanic said it's because the head gasket is shot. Recommended total engine replacement.

I'm not doubting that the head gasket could be leaking, but I find it highly unlikely that it's the main cause of our oil issue. Have no performance issues, major smoke from exhaust, or coolant/oil mixing that I can tell. I think it's much more likely that it's the valve cover leaking.

Planning to pick it up from the shop and get some uv dye next week. Think it's worth having a second shop take a look at it? I didn't really think it was possible for the head gasket to leak oil out the rear of the engine without seeing some other symptoms. Hoping someone here has seen something similar!