Is it even possible to bend the tabs on the metal clip the holds the grease and rubber seal in with motor etc installed? I cannot get anything on it to bend the tabs, header tube also in the way.

i just tried this the other day with NO engine and a pair of large channel locks. no luck, i get one side then the other pops off

I hate those caps ... never was able to get one to stay on for more than a week YMMV...

here is my suggestion

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003LVR6R0

I was hoping someone would post something like that. How hard to install?

If that little tab only functions to keep that seal and grease in can't one just fill the top with silicone or jb weld?

Pre-bend them, just a little on each one & then start the back sides first. With a little practice you can roll them on every time & they will stay.

They are a pain. Someone sells a rubber boot that slips over the top of the coupler and replaces the metal lid. Add a zerk fitting low on the coupler body and you're set.

Steer and Gear has the boot and it works way better than the factory setup.Little tough getting it over the pins,just fill coupler with grease and your done.