What I found is the filter fits the base of the airbox perfectly, the problem happens when you replace the lid. The K&N filter is approximately 3/8" shorter than the stock paper filter so the lid does not fit tightly on top of the filter. This allows the filter to lift up at speed creating a leak around the edges of the filter.
What I did to solve this problem is very simple. I went to my local Builder's Square Home Improvement Center and purchased some Door and Window Weatherproof & Airtight Foam Tape.
This tape is 1/2"
thick and 3/4" wide with adhesive on the back-->
The cost was minimal, less than $3.00!
<--Then I removed the airbox lid, flipped it over and ran a
bead of tape around the outside edge inside the box, as
shown here.
Then you just replace the lid the tape forms
a nice tight seal all the way around the new K&N Filter!
You may have to trim the tape a little bit to get the lid
back in place. A sharp utility knife or exacto knife will
work. Here's what the finished product looks like.
I must caution everyone that this is my own remedy and it is not in any way endorsed by K&N!!!! This seems to work fine, but you should draw your own conclusions. The last I heard K&N was planning on having a filter for the 96 and 97 SS sometime in the near future, but as far as I can tell this is nothing more than a rumor, as I have no confirmation from K&N on the subject.