Air Filter Cannister - Rust in circular groove

[Williamss]

Hi all
I gather this is a common problem but cant find any earlier posts.

Has anyone come up with a solution to prevent water lying in the circular recess in the top of the Air Filter Cannister (C26295). The groove is there to allow the three over-centre catches to grab the lid tightly.

However the groove always holds water when the car is washed or when driven in rain. Currently I extract the water slowly with a chamois - even then it leaves a damp surface and surface rust eventually forms.

I dont think a small drain hole is a solution? The water would then collect in the bottom of the cannister.

Contemplating a large O ring to fill the grove, but this would interfere with three catches.

What is everyone else doing?

[DWW]

Don't drive in the rain or wash it as such but you can run a tidy bead of water proof tape around the groove and replace it every time you service the filter.

[lolaetype]

Every time I drive in the rain (seldom) or wash the car I open the bonnet and use a towel to mop up any water drops I see. That includes the groove you mention. I then use compressed air to blow any remaining water from under the data plate and other areas I can't reach with the towel.