F225 seal, rubber 69j-15761-00-00

[fairdeal]

looking at parts diagrams, I was reminded of something that has intrigued me for some time -

Nestled inside the oil pan of the 3.3 F225 is this rubber collar -
Yamaha calls it a seal, but IIRC it didn't seem to be sealing squat

its impressive on many levels,
including that the rubber stands up to constant complete immersion in oil -
and considering its complex shape, a bargain at $15 list

but wtf is it there for?

Part #2