What is this part? Can't find it in the parts catalog?
 

Can't seem to find this part in the parts catalog. there is a flange and a screw but this is the thing that goes into this flange. Looks like an oil sending unit but the oil pressure sending unit is the one on top. What could this be?

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/a...gine911996.jpg

I actually might have that flange as part the "motor rebuild kit". Let me check this weekend and I can send to you.

Not sure about the sender unit, hopefully not some sort of camshaft actuator.

#20 in the parts diagram, it is the Vario-Cam solenoid oil seal. Very easy to replace. 2 bolts torque to 7.5 ft/lbs

These are often the source of leaks. New ones are not expensive and can be replaced with the engine in the car. Probably the hardest part is disconnecting the wire at the connector and getting the connector out of its holder.

Thank you. Tried to search more but couldnt really find it. Looks like a sending unit but the pelican parts catalog does not say what it is. Actually its blank on the catalog if you look closely.

Thanks. Thats right i think i can reach it from the bottom and its even more accessible if i take off the left rear wheel. But what is it?

It looks like you need a solenoid valve cylinder (1-3) for the camshaft adjustment and a flange gasket, we can get you what you need. For more information Click Here.

Thanks so much for this information. What is this solenoid for. In my search I found out that this is attached to the cam shaft. Would you know what is its specific function? The reason I ask is because if it is not malfunctioning, I might be lucky enough not to replace this solenoid and just replace the flange instead. The solenoid is a little pricey and if my problem is only the oil leak, I might get away with just the flange replacement. What do you guys think?

The solenoid operates the cam advance mechanism. The leak at the seal really has nothing to do with the operation of the solenoid. If the advance is working then there is no reason to replace the solenoid.

One option is to remove the two bolts holding the cover/seal in place, slide it off, clean it and the solenoid off, put a little RTV sealer on the seal, slide it back in place and let it dry. I use Permatex Copper RTV. This avoids having to access the connector on the wire and based on my experience works pretty well. I did this even on new seals that I put in.

Thanks. I'll do this first then see if I really need to replace the solenoid. I hope this fix will stop the leaking. It's not really that bad. Its just a little moist on the sides. Will update the thread soonest.