Update. Since I got the used part right at closing I went into settle the bill today. The owner said "no charge" and gave it me. I thanked him and that took some of the sting out of my failure. My wife was with and it helped that she saw how good Reimans H-D is to deal with.

 

drill those tabs, go to a hardware store for a couple of pins. it's the only way to ensure the covers stay on.

 

going to do this ASAP. thanks!

 

 

Yep .. I just stop by the local hdwe and pick up a roll of black foam for resealing doors and windows ... it does the job.

 

I've always wondered why saddlebags don't use a U-shaped seal installed on the top of the bag and not the lid. Seems like the fitment would be right where you need it. I guess it would be easy to damage getting stuff in/out of the bag.
Like a car trunk seal.