Air panel installation

[diskmark]

Hi
I just pulled my carbs to send out for service.
I noticed I do not have an air panel on my 97.
Does anyone have a picture of one installed?
I found one on Ebay, I just need to see the orientation and hardware.

[WintrSol]

Do you mean parts of the air cleaner assembly? https://www.partzilla.com/catalog/honda/motorcycle/1998/gl1500ct-a-valkyrie-tourer/air-cleaner
Or something else in the carb assembly.
Or maybe the air deflector that fits under the radiator? Part #7 here: https://www.partzilla.com/catalog/honda/motorcycle/1998/gl1500ct-a-valkyrie-tourer/radiator

[diskmark]

Wintrsol

#5 in that diagram
I don't see any fastening hardware in the diagram

[WintrSol]

I can't find it anywhere in the service manual, although I think it appears in photos of the thermostat area. Since I haven't had my radiator off, I can't say what holds it in place, if anything. Waiting for one of those who have been into this part of the bike to chime in now.

[The emperor has no clothes]

There are no fasteners that hold it in place. It is kept there by all the other stuff in its way. They are kind of a pain to get in place. I imagine that's why it wasn't put back in.

[diskmark]

Thanks Emperor

I guess that's what I needed to know

[John Schmidt]

Are you talking about the "air guide plate?'  You need to install it before installing your carbs.

[Chrisj CMA]

You can get it in with carbs in place but it's much harder. Counter to what you think removing the radiator is no help. Remove tank and air box and work it in from the top.

[Avanti]

Be advised. In from the top is the no fun way.

[John Schmidt]

If the carbs are out it's definitely much easier. No need to remove the tank or airbox to install it, but still not a day at the beach. Soften it with a hair dryer or if it's sunny out, leave it exposed on a reflective surface to soften. Then to install the carbs just remove the upper engine hangers, pull back all that's attached to them and the carbs will then have enough room to clear that air dam. Don't worry about the engine dropping out, it's not going anywhere.

[diskmark]

What is the purpose of the panel.
What is it protecting from the wind?

[Chrisj CMA]

Well. It keeps the carbs clean and shields heat from the radiator so the fuel in the carbs is cooler. Everyone I know that was too lazy to put it back in eventually changed their mind and put in back in.

[diskmark]

Thanks Chris