Resolved What is that plate on the bottom of the block?

[slipstream808]

Title says it all. What is that plate on the bottom of the block after I tear of the oil pan? It just sits there not seeming to do much. It has four bolts and sits toward the driver's side of the engine.

Problem is it only has THREE now. I tore the head off of one. I don't see why I should be worried but I'll be damned if I'm gonna say I know everything and this is one thing I dont' know. Thanks guys!!

 

[winterftbl]

post some pictures up, that might help.

 

[99gst_racer]

Google "windage tray".

They help keep oil from slinging around - basically keeping it off of the crank. Similar to the functions of a scraper.
It should stay in place with 3 bolts.

 

[slipstream808]

THAT'S WHAT IT IS! The windage tray. Thanks, I just couldn't think of it at all.