Installing new Billet Sump Plate....what's up with the screen?
 

I'm installing the Billet Sump Plate and noticed a screen just inside the opening. Is this screen removable? Does it need to be cleaned? Could someone shed some light on this subject. Also, why are 2 gaskets?Thanks in advance.
-BILL

I can't say I know more than what I'd learn from removing the plate. That screen is a catch screen for various junk that winds up there. When I first got my car it was full of sludge.

It would probably be a good idea to clean that out every so often (2-3 oil changes? what's the offcial word on that?)

The 2 gaskets are just to prevent leaking.

While "junk catcher" is a great secondary use for the screen to keep big pieces from going into the pump, I believe the screen's primary function is to de-aerate the oil so the scavenge pump gets liquid instead of foam.

that sounds like a more plausable explaination for it's use.