Honda Spree and Elite 50 Forums

Hey folks, new here. Just picked up an 86 Spree. Have a mechanic working on it now, needs a new battery, carb and fuel petcock.

Visually it's in great shape, black, minimal scratches. Buuuut...
there is a peice of plastic missing. Square and sits a few inches below the front of the seat...

Could anybody tell me:
1) What that peice is called so I can stop sounding like a moron?
2) Can I effectively just do without, if I cannot find a replacement or will air rushing thru there screw up performance?

That is just the fuel valve cover, not necessary for operation. It just protects the petcock.

Thank you for the reply, I feel less moronic already! :) My mechanic has actually ordered this part from somewhere for me, so I will son be on my way.

that is the fuel valve and strainer cover