Moulded foam block between engine and transmission; why?

[Lacey KZJ78]

I'm chasing an oil leak at the back of the oil pan of my 1KZ when I ran across a fitted piece of stiff foam that was held in place by two engine-to-transmission brackets / braces. Is this to help keep that area clean?

I just read a Patrol forum that blamed this for premature rusting of an oil pan...

It ripped in two as I tried to get it out. :'(

 

[gifu]

I always thought those were sound insulators.


...via IH8MUD app

 

[77-fj-40]

These are usually there to protect exhaust heat from damaging sensitive components. Some engines have plastic intake manifolds and that is primarily where you see this application.


...via IH8MUD app

 

[Lacey KZJ78]

I now know that it's primarily for noise control... Oh well, I guess all will hear me coming!

Hopefully, the leak is just the oil pan and not the rear main seal...



BTW, why do these trucks demand the owner to become a near-certified mechanic?? Geeze...

 

[kbushnz]

What ever it does it isn't noticeable when it is gone. Mines been removed for over 10 years... My truck is used mostly for off road with no ill effects.