1994 Elite S Fan Cover filter

[schwarz633]

I'm trying to figure out what the purpose of the foam filter media in the fan cover is for. It doesn't seem like any air would flow through it. Is it for sound deadening? Should I clean it? It looks like I'd have to remove some pop rivets to get it out.

[MrJumps]

Its deadning foam, leave it be as long as its not soaked with oil or gas.