Sealant for Valve Cover Baffle Rivets

[glinskonian]

Hey all,

Im replacing the valve cover gasket and spark plugs tubes, and noticed that there is some kind of sealant around the edge if the baffle, as well as around the rivets that hold the baffle in place (and I think they're also used to hold the threaded holes that secure the spark plug wires). Does anyone know if this is how it comes from the factory, and if I need to re-seal this? I'm leaning towards removing it and not re-sealing as im nervous about any FIPG falling into the engine down the line (surprised it hasn't already). See pics below.
94 1FZFE

 

[mudgudgeon]

Its factory, and not worth disturbing it.

If any is loose/ coming away, carefully remove loose stuff

 

[reklund5]

Yes, that is factory. I just installed a brand new Toyota valve cover that also had that sealant in those locations. I agree- don't disturb it. If its loose, maybe knock it off but it won't hurt anything.

 

[Malleus]

I think it's anti-rattle goop.

 

[glinskonian]

Its factory, and not worth disturbing it.

If any is loose/ coming away, carefully remove loose stuff

Oof ok, I ended up removing most of it around the rivets as it peeling. Wonder should I re-seal or just leave it as is?

 

[Comet]

Leave it. There’s more of it underneath and behind. This is a caveman response- here goes.

Ugh, Cronk says “More, Bad!”

 

[mudgudgeon]

Leave it. It's not sealing anything. Oil that gets on top of the baffle drains back anyway