What is stuff on timing cover?

["Wayne Ross" <rengrave@netzero.net>]

Listers,

What is the hard bumpy stuff on the timing chain cover?
I assume it is some sort of sound deadening material, is it really needed?
I don't see it in the catalogs. I would prefer to just scrap it off and paint
to make the engine look it's best, but if it is needed, then I would like to
use the correct stuff during my engine re-build.

Wayne Ross
Westport, MA
1973 TR6 (middle of complete engine re-build)