626 Air filter question

[OhSchnapps]

Ok, so my 2001 626 has been idling rough, so i talked to a friend who suggested i change my air filter. So i went out and bought one, and yes it's for the right model. i opened the housing, and took the old filter out. The bottom of the housing was full of leaves, rocks, debris, etc. So i cleaned it out as best as i could (the housing lid is hard to keep open, even though all the clips are removed and everything). I wiped it up, removed most of the debris, and put the new filter in.

Now the lid won't shut completely, and i worry that dust and dirt can get into the engine. When i shut the lid, the lid "pinches" the rubber edge on the left side of the air filter, so it won't shut. i could get the clips on and all that, but i fear that it is not sealed properly and i am doing more harm than good with this seemingly simple replacement. I'd assume that pictures will help here; i can post some if they can help you guys help me. Anyone's advice is appreciated.

 

[alphanumeric]

my old filter didn't really fit my airbox either. in fact, one of the clips in mine is missing and there is a little crack between the bottom (inlet side) of the box and the air filter. i haven't had any problems with it, as long as the gap isn't behind the air flow sensor it should be ok.

 

[OhSchnapps]

Yeah, it looks like this was a design fault here. There is no way to shut the housing without pinching the rubber edge on one side. I looked at the old filter (which was installed by a mechanic the last time i had it changed) and the left side of the rubber was torn as if it was pinched in there as well. It is shut as tightly as possible, though, so i think i am okay.