SethP

After changing both filters with exact oe replacements I noticed that there is a minor gap on both sides beneath the bottom torx screw, which holds the two pieces together.

I think/hope that it doesnt impact cleanliness as the gap, I think, if anything would funnel air into the prefiltered air and not past the filter itself.

Have you guys noticed this small gap? Is it normal to be there? Or am I not doing something right in the reassembly?

XLR82XS

No gaps. Take it back out and check fitment - it's a tight fit.

SethP

I have literally taken the thing apart and put it back together about 10 times, but it doesn't seem to matter it always ends up the same.

So I've taken some pics just to be sure you guys see what is happening.

Having seen the pics, is this a problem?


Look to the far right of this, see how the lip comes up a little?


In this one, see how the spacing isn't consistent?

Both sides look exactly the same, and no matter which way I flip the filters, the same happens.

ozusa

My E320 has a similarly-imperfect air-cleaner. I ended up ignoring it after trying several ways to get it right. I suspect it never was good in the first place, or had warped over the years.

mcleantmw

My 2003 air filter replacement did the same thing as your vehicle. The heat from the engine warps the air filter casement unit so that it doesn't seal totally in one area each side. But the pressure from the screws on both sides of the rubber frame of the air filters should keep a air tight seal.

Quadcammer

while not quite right, there is a thick seal on the filter. it will be fine.