Under My Oil Cap

[Mousiee]

I have a 97 V6 Camry. I was checking my oil today and noticed that after 2800 miles the oil is still a goldish color. I try to get my oil changed every 3000 miles by my local dealer (They use Citgo oil). I admit sometimes I go over the 3000 mile rule because my wife drives the car all the time. I have about 125,000 miles on her now and wish to do my own oil changes now. Upon opening the oil cap there appears to be a blockage of some sort maybe a 1/4 to 1/2 inch under it. I was wondering if this is supposed to be there as some type of screen or what? Is this something I need to worry about? I have had the dealer check on three different occasions for sludge all witch have been negative. Please help.

One more question:
Could and should I switch to synthetic oil?

Thanks.

Mousiee

[Mousiee]

It's the damn valve cover oil baffle!

http://www.radphys.com/TSB_VALVE_COV..._BAFFLE_DP.pdf

[bowlofturtle]

interesting i dont see that on my 96.

hey i had a question about the cap as well. there is build up on my dad's 94 XLE like under the cap. somewhat like build up that can be wiped off. but none on mines why would that be. i figure its nothing.