I am getting a black build-up on the front of my intake manifold and around water pump. Turns into a real, thick grease. Anyone know what it is, or what causes it?

Though maybe a seal was blown and it was a small oil leak but I have never lost/burned oil between changes at all with my current motor.

 

sounds like the front china wall is leaking or a valve cover is leaking and the seals need to be changed.

 

I too suggest front leaking china wall.

 

Is there a seal for the front china wall...just wondering because this is a somwhat new motor (17 months old)

 

Chance are they either used the inadequate rubber gaskets or didn't use enough RTV. You should use RTV and not the rubber ones that come in the gasket kit.

 

what is a china wall??

 

It is the front and rear portions of the engine block. They are rasied up and make a wall that resembles the great one.