Hey guys, quick question. I've dropped the pan to replace my fluid on my 02 durango 4.7l On the pan, there seems to be a groove around the edge of the pan (in line with the bolt holes) that has what looks like old rubber squished down in it. I took off the old gasket, it was cracked and pretty wore out. Then I noticed this groove that's full of the same material. Do I scrape it out or is it supposed to be there?

 

Unless something has changed, I make sure EVERYTHING is wire wheeled off the pan...I then I spray it down with Brake-Clean...Put the magnet back in place, use a light coat of sealer on both sides and snug each bolt down in a X pattern and watch for leaks...

 

Thanks Paul! I took it off just in case.