Upper Control Arms - Is that tar on the top to seal the ball joint?

[jdc4357]

Hi,
I have a upper control arm that while I was changing out the bushings, I disturbed the tar like substance on the top that I think seals the ball joint. I think I need to get some more of this "tar" so I can seal it up better. What is this stuff called and can I get it at your typical autoparts store? Will taking a heat gun to it, make it smoother and seal it better? So many questions....
Thanks,
jamieC

 

[destrux]

Good question, all that crap fell off of mine when I was scrubbing the grease off the control arms. I didn't do anything to replace it. I assume the stuff that was squished out was excess and there's still some inside sealing it up.

 

[jdc4357]

Hmm.. makes sense. Guess I'll leave it alone and cross my fingers.
thanks,
jamieC