Hi. I just installed a timing belt kit for my 2001 RX-300. I discovered a rubber gasket in the block where the water pump impeller rotates. It looks like it might be a valley plate seal? I am stumped as to how it made it's way there.

 

Seems like valve cover gasket.

The shape shows it is not a part of new but of the old one.

If you are not loosing oil or no seepage around the valve cover, just toss it out.


Salim

 

Yep, what he said. An old VC gasket, old and cooked, broken.