Can't remove rear cam seal plate
 

I have just completed the valve cover gaskets and was going to replace both rear cam o-rings.

I was able to remove both 12mm bolts ... but then cannot get the plate to budge (can't rotate it at all).

I suspect the plates both have some sealant on them, as something white is visible around the edge
of the plates... how do I proceed?

Thanks in advance!

I know there is not much space to get there, but have you tried a rubber mallet or a small hammer and a block of wood?

no, I just used my hands ... so the block of wood sounds worthy of a shot !

Thanks again!

For the passenger side:
Per your suggestion, I used a 2x2 wood block.
Wow, it was totally shot (brittle) and some kind of white colored sealant everywhere thats taking forever to clean off.

For the drivers side:
Used an old wood screwdriver and a rubber mallet to get the driver side off, which was more difficult but not horrible once I found that the screwdrive was the only thing narrow enough to engage the plate with. O-ring totally flat and busted off and was brittle. Sings of oil leak everywhere.

Should I use an RTV on the flat surfaces when I re-install it? If so, any recommendations? I have permatex ultra black but have never used it.

I think RTV here is a hack repair, use the correct OEM O-ring.

100% agree