TE/TC 2016 te300 Air gap in back of box open to rear wheel fender

Anybody have a slotted breather hole open for rear wheel to churn water into air box? Mine does, found mud in air box several times before i figured out where it was coming from. I silicone sealant over it and will open up a spot thats safer. Thos factory idea?

My 16 has this, assuming all do. It is covered by the swing arm mud flap which hopefully will reduce the mud intake. (I only have 2 hours on the bike which did include some mud, but did not pull any in this way (It is great fun being an accountant and working close to 70 hours a week this time of year when you have a brand new bike with 2 hours on it at home and are looking out the window at sunny skies and 75 degrees, but I digress).

Where do you plan to open up the air box if you seal this? Drilled holes in cover?

My 2005 EXC had large openings under the seat where mud would channel down the rear fender straight into the airbox. Got messing in there quickly, but did not seem to channel directly onto the filter. That airbox was huge compared to the TE, lots of dead airspace behind the filter (Not saying this was by design, but this is where the mud would come flowing in and run down out the side of the airbox cover)

Is the 2016 TE airbox design different than the 14-15?

Not sure about other years, im kinda a baby with this bike i guess, im sure its no big deal at all and like to discuss my new bike to learn from others. Im not a fan of opening up air box due to water getting in, i wont open up anything more than likely because i feel these bikes get enough air through seat area and hole at bottom, my bike has tons of power. Im just picky a little and love to tinker.
Sorry to hear, tax season i guess

This slotted hole btw is not the drain hole (in case others misinterpret), yes its in rear fender and the swing arm mud flap doesnt cover mine.

The slot can be seen by looking inside airbos out to wheel, shine light from fender in and youll see it looks diliberate but not a good idea in my humble opinion

Already discussed. Here. And here.

Not complaining about the job, is an all volunteer army as I like to remind some of the younger folks. Just is busy this time of year. 60% of revenue in 25% of year. But thanks none the less!

But do look forward to riding.

Thanks! Only way i saw it is i saw mud creeping in. I will watch my silicone repair closely from my weight affecting it and see if it widens, i will add screws if necessary to stregthen if needed.