For what it's worth, I replaced both of the seals in the U-tube about 6 years ago and from that point on I've never had difficulty removing the air cleaner. In fact, over the past week I've had my air cleaner on and off about 5 times.

All it takes is loosening of the clamp at the turbo, and then the tube slides off of the turbo with the air cleaner still attached to the tube. A little grease on the turbo end can help with sliding it on or off. But, if you use too much grease the turbo will suck it in.

Of course, if one uses very old, hardened, deformed seals, it will be a constant struggle.

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1967 W110 Universal Wagon, Euro, Turbo Diesel, Tail Fins, 4 Speed Manual Column Shift, A/C
1980 W116 300SD Turbo Diesel, DB479 Walnut Brown, Sunroof, Highly Optioned, 350,000+ Miles