wing nut for airfilter casing

The original wingnut for the airfilter casing has been lost and I can't find another with the right threads. I was told that it isn't necessary to replace it, but why would it have been there in the first place if it wasn't needed? If I really do need one, where can I find one?
Thanks
oops sorry its a 96 GEO Metro LSI 4 cylinder

Well i have a 94 metro and you really dont need one because of the clasps that are around it. When i forgot to put my wingnut back on, i noticed that my car made a shaking noise. I think the wing nut just stablizes it so it doesn't shake as much. You should try a hardware store like, Sears Hardware, Valu, etc... I hope i helped a little. If I find something I'll let you kno.

Inni

Any auto parts store will carry a plastic universal wing nut just for that purpose. They're about $1.50. They thread themselves as you tighten it down. I've used a few, they work just as good, if not better than a stock one, and they don't ever vibrate loose.

Any auto parts store will carry a plastic universal wing nut just for that purpose. They're about $1.50. They thread themselves as you tighten it down. I've used a few, they work just as good, if not better than a stock one, and they don't ever vibrate loose.

Excellent! thanks a bunch

A nut with a large washer works just fine.

The reason for the wingnut is obvious: convenience. You can remove the air filter any time with no tools.

thanks, all! I'll get a universal plastic one today!

-no more replys please ;>)

That little wingnut also holds the entire air intake down, so it makes a proper seal to the throttle body. Without it, you'll have a constant low vacuum, possibly bad mpg, and studdering, and un-filtered air going directly into the intake.

thanx! this is what I originally thought! will have to pick up the universal wingnut today

Finally! the universal wingnut is now in place! Auto parts stores and Sears didn't have them! can you believe it? But we have a great general store in the neighborhood and of course they did! Thanks again for the advice and feedback.

If Auto stores didn't have it, what is the point of them.

know what you mean. a guy from Napa was the one who lost the wingnut in the first place and couldn't find a replacement that worked! Plus I was surprised that the guys I talked to in looking for the universal didn't know what I was talking about...being female, that made me feel kinda good...ya know being in a 'man's world' setting lol

anyhooo - thanks to all for your help!