Raptor 400 Engine Cover

Hey all....just wondering the opinion on the need/functionality of the plastic engine cover. One of the 3 stud posts that hold it on has come loose on my engine and I can't locate it. I'm leaning toward just leaving the cover off all together. Curious about everyone's thoughts....to make sure I'm not missing something; I don't think this would be a big deal. In fact, in the future wanting to put the custom "pizza tray" on top of the compartment, figured I remove it anyway then to allow for more vertical depth.

Thanks!

The biggest thing it really does in my opinion is act as a big prefilter. It wraps around enough to keep water from dripping down or splashing up into the air filter.
I don’t know that I’d run without it, especially if you have kids who are constantly in and out of the boat. May end up with some water in the filter.

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Originally Posted by Broke Pilot

The biggest thing it really does in my opinion is act as a big prefilter. It wraps around enough to keep water from dripping down or splashing up into the air filter.
I don’t know that I’d run without it, especially if you have kids who are constantly in and out of the boat. May end up with some water in the filter.

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Better go looking and find that missing peg!


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I don't think that plastic is doing much of anything useful and I wouldn't have an issue running the boat without it.

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Originally Posted by mcjimmy33

I don't think that plastic is doing much of anything useful and I wouldn't have an issue running the boat without it.

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That's what I'm thinking as well. The alternator is right there kind of center/rear. I definitely wouldn't have an issue if I have a tray inserted which should prevent any excess water coming through the hatch with kids loading/unloading all the time. Now, I don't have the tray yet, but....still pondering going without this summer.

Just be careful. I’m pretty certain the ignition coils are under there too.

Those plastics covers started back in the carb days to keep any water splashing past the flame arrestor and away from electrical components.

I would be more concerned about the electric components. Mine (Indmar 350 - 5.7 block) covers the parts by the distributor.

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Think I'm going to put a bolt or all thread in that spot with a nut on top and bottom. Think a lock nut would do the trick or should I go with some lock-tite or something?

Use a brand new nylock. Should be fine.

I think there is some risk to the electrical components but the likelihood of any real damage is very low. I also think about the overall condition of the boat. These type of issues that dont really affect the operation of the boat, accumulate over time and will show up at resale time. This one of course would be overlooked if there is a well built/fitting tray in its place.