Qucick question about cover direction-->81 xs 650

[HOTEL71]

#1--I am running stock air boxes
#2--ordered and received new air filters
#3--took original plastic side covers off
saw this (see picture)
#4--went to opposite side removed same and
#5--found cover with 2 circles going opposite direction

so which way does the cover sit?
two holes towards rear of bike? OR,
two holes towards front wheel.

Ps
does direction matter if they are behind plastic covers?
airflow is kinda restricted, no?

thanks in advance!!

 

[5twins]

I'm pretty sure the holes should face the rear. That's what the parts diagram shows .....

https://www.partzilla.com/catalog/yamaha/motorcycle/1981/xs650h/intake

..... and if you think about it, it makes more sense that way. I think if you faced them forward and were driving in the rain, water might get forced in.

 

[Jim]

Parts diagrams are your friend....

 

[HOTEL71]

You are the man !!
Thank you so much!