CAM shaft gasket problem?

Tiny
DAVENOOB
  • MEMBER
  • 2013 CHEVROLET IMPALA
  • 3.6L
  • V6
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 165,000 MILES
When replacing VVT I noticed this weird goop oozing out of where the seal would be. I was thinking maybe a liquid gasket that didn't set right. Also, noticed a bit of space between the seal. Here's pics hopefully this helps.
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Friday, April 4th, 2025 AT 3:51 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 14,187 POSTS
That looks like it has been off before and when they put it back on, they used an RTV sealant. Not uncommon. Probably feels like rubber. Nothing to worry about really.
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Saturday, April 5th, 2025 AT 12:05 AM
Tiny
DAVENOOB
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That's what I thought. I see a gap around the whole cam shaft I mean doesn't seem sealed. I hear a vacuum leak but I haven't been able to locate it. Would a gap at the camshaft cause a vacuum leak sound? Also did a ODBII scanner popped a p0011 code for vvt. Could a bad camshaft seal cause this? I replaced both VVT solenoid for the that camshaft. Thanks
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Saturday, April 5th, 2025 AT 9:45 AM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 14,187 POSTS
A bad seal won't cause the P0011, that is commonly the wiring to the solenoid or a bad solenoid. Easy way to find the vacuum leak, Start with a cold engine, use either starting spray or carb cleaner and spray it in the area you hear the leak, then install the straw on the can and narrow it down, Or take a piece of hose and hold one end to your ear and move the other end around the engine, listen for the spot the sound gets louder then move in with the hose.
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Sunday, April 6th, 2025 AT 5:35 AM
Tiny
DAVENOOB
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  • 227 POSTS
Thanks. I wasn't speaking of the code issue. I'm pretty sure I hear a vacuum leak, but I can't find it. It doesn't throw a code either I've heard for over a year. I went over the cold running engine with starter fluid numerous times (not always sure where to spray on this car) and couldn't find the leak. So, this was a general question about something I saw. Thanks for reminder about starter fluid now I know to try around that cam shaft gasket area. I will let you know if I hear the car idle up when sprayed with fluid. Thanks again.
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Sunday, April 6th, 2025 AT 9:21 AM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 14,187 POSTS
Let us know what you find.
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Sunday, April 6th, 2025 AT 1:21 PM

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