Not the usual Oil Leak

[mrraford]

My pickup has decided that it needs to leak oil. The offending orifice is not the rear main however and I need advice on a cure.
It appears that my engine is leaking from the front around the crank. What approach to the experienced folks here have for treating that? Are there modern seals to replace the rope seals and do they work? Is the cause perhaps a worn pulley shaft?
Would folks care to opine about frequent causes of such a problem? I haven't put the wrench to the engine as yet and wanted to discuss the matter first.
thanks