In message , Dave Hall
writes
You wonder if the silicone was because someone was too tight to put on a new
gasket, or a belt and braces attempt to make sure it didn't leak. There should
be no need for extra sealant there anyway, if the surfaces are suitably clean
for the new gasket.
Lucky you didn't block an oilway with it - hope it still won't.

Pump pickup - the gauze bit, or the pipe itself?


Sort of related....

A friend of mine has just his A4 back from the garage following his oil
warning light coming on "here and there".

After checking all the usual and finding no problems, they suspected the
oil pickup (strainer). Unfortunately, on this model to get the sump off
requires removing most of the front sub frame.

Long story short, all's well that ends well - yes the pickup was heavily
clogged/gummed up. Bit of a clean and all now fine.
Someone