Volkswagen: rubber cam plug in vw magnisium engine, rubber plug, time bomb

Question
I recently had my 2022 cc engine (73 Thing)serviced for a oil leak problem and the mechanic stated he had forgot to "paint" both sides of a metal cam plug before he installed it on a rebuild.  he said he inseerted a rubber plug as a replacement (to keep from having to split the engine).  I was told the rubber was only for aluminum engines by another mechanic.  Did my mechanic leave me with an oil leak time bomb?

Answer
Johnny,

An aftermarket engine that size should not have a rubber plug separating the end of the camshaft from the open air.  In time, the heat will expand and contract the rubber and create a problem.

The engine should be fixed correctly with a metal-based plug.  The entire perimeter of the plug should be coated with aviation cement put in the case.

I wish I had a better solution, however, you are taking a big chance on that motor.  The case should be split to properly repair this.

Best of Luck,

Ron