The real problem with HamCan is the steel grille. I've run a K&N filter in the HamCan without the grille, this makes removal/installing the can much easier as the filter can be 'rolled' more into position. I've always R&R'd the hamcan with carbs in place. With the grille, you just got to be more brutal with the rubbers. I pre place them onto carbs, pushed as far forward onto carb intakes as possible/well past their normal position. Then after front plate located, its a matter of pushing/proding/levering the rubbers into the plate openings and getting them properely seated. A long thing screw driver helps here.