Foam Seal on Air Inlet Cover

[misfit77]

Anyone ever replace the foam seals on the inlet on the M56 ?

I went to install new air filters and it crumbled.

I figure i cant just install seal from the hardware store unless OEM is cheap enough.

[Ilya]

You can probably just get a strip of it from Amazon or something that is automotive grade or whatever.

[VStar650CL]

On an intake tube, foam is pretty much foam. It'll never pass 200F even when the engine bakes after shutoff, and any sort of HVAC foam will stand up to that.

[misfit77]

Thanks. Plan on looking this weekend.

[misfit77]

Sorry about large photos.

I got something to work, for now at least.
I used M-D Premium Silicone Window seal. Its an EPDM and silicone blend and has operating temps to 140°.
They did not have black at HD, but it is made. I used Ex-Large, but I am thinking a smaller size might work.



I tried in its original 2 strips but there was too much meat. So I split it into single strips. About 18" each. There is a line on the duct. I tried applying below, above and on the line. On the line and close to the edge on the corners worked well.

Here is the working application. It is hard to tell, but there is a direction of the seal that makes installation easier.



Here is following the line. You can see more exposure on the corners.


Here is a close up of it installed. You have to be cautious. You can't just jam it in there like a teenager on his first date.


Here is both ducts sealed and extra pieces near the OEM strips to prevent vibration


Link to more pics https://photos.app.goo.gl/FMTtKG7K7mk1n9aeA

[Ilya]

lol @ 'you can't just jam it in there like a teenager on his first date'. Nearly spit my water out.

Good stuff man! This actually might be better then the foam cause it's probably a tighter seal (that's what she said).