Regarding the plate on the rear of the head of the 22re, is there an open oil passage behind it that will leak if the plate is not sealed correctly? Any coolant passages that could spill if I were to take it off for reseal? What actually is behind it? Thanks.

 

its a coolant passage

 

the plate is an egr cooler. has nothing to do with oil. coolant is behind it. if u suspect it "leaking" oil check the half moon and valve cover gasket that is right above it, making it appear to be leaking oil. lol.

 

Maybe I didnt fix the half moon plugs enough then

That makes thing a little easier.