There's a relatively small rubber seal attached to the hood on the passenger side that seals against the upper radiator bracket just in front of the battery. I'm assuming it has something to do with air flow to the air box.

I have an S&B intake which has an open front portion. Any reason not to remove the gasket? Anyone see any potential benefit?

Volant has a kit that has a scoop that directs air from the hood, over the battery and into the intake. Just a thought.

 

snow maybe?

 

Possibly... But the OEM air box doesn't take any air from the engine bay. Only from within the fender.