Engine Compartment Seal

So, with these aircooleds it is imperative to get the engine compartment as air tight as possible. This is because cool air is being blown into the engine to keep both the oil and engine cool. If hot air comes up through the various gaps and holes in the engine tin/compartment it becomes very difficult for the cool air to stay cool. So, by sealing the engine compartment you keep your engine and oil cool and avoid overheating your engine.

Here is the thread from the Samba that got me started, and here is the thread that explains how it all works. My Westy had an old foam type of seal that was falling apart and missing in many places.  This is what it looked like before:

I know this is not the best image but notice the HUGE gap at the front of the engine compartment. It was like this the majority of the way around.  The first thing I did was find the part. I had to call the BusDepot to find the part number because I had no idea what it is called, or what section its under. They call it an engine weather strip and the part number is 251813226A. They cost a pretty penny at $130.00US, but you have to have it, so do it.  

Once you have the part and all of the old one out, you just have to push it onto the edge of the engine tin. It can be difficult, but it will go on. I found the best way was to start at the back (closest to you) and have the ends meet at the front (farthest from you). Here are some pics of the completed "weather strip".

Obviously there are still a couple of gaps. I am going to fill them in with something, although I'm not sure what yet. Also the parts that are missing were removed to get better access to the tin. Much Much Better.. I still have to put in a thermostat and get the exhaust figured out, but She's getting closer.