I have a 85 fxrs with a stock carb with a s&s back plate and filter cover. My k&n filter that was made for a s&s. Now my cover will not fit flush over my back plate like it did before. Note: the previous filter was some sort of triangle shaped chicken wire with some make shift foam around it. Is the k&n filter made so that it won't fit flush and I should get a little space? If this is not the case, what are the effects if I ride the bike this way?

 

I don't have any experience with the s&s set-up but my se ac cover does not sit flush. I would think it is supposed to sit out a little so that the filter can get some air.

 

sounds like you got the wrong K&N filter. i had the original S&S chicken wire with the green foam and went to a K&N and it fits perfect. i didnt notice any difference in depth of the K&N over the original, and believe me i would of noticed.

 

did you read the instructions? I put a K&N in my shovelhead with a s&s super E, and in order for it to fit properly I had to grind off a part of the back plate, which was shown in the paperwork that came with the filter.

 

true...had to grind a tab off the backplate for correct fit on my 84 FLTC.

 

forgot to mention the grinding off in my other response....
Definitely needed to do a bit of grinding to fit the K&N