Interesting set up ya got there. Yes I blocked off the flap on the hot air box some time ago. It wasn't stuck open or closed just half way. Hope that didn't hurt anything.
About the bypass on the flame trap, sounds like the old road draft tubes that the big block Fords used back in the early 60's. Had thought of doing the same thing. Here in southwest Va, we don't have to pass the smog tests that are elsewhere. Do you just plugg the vacume line that conected to the flame trap, up or is that hooked into the draft tube?
On the screens on both sides of the air meter can they be replaced after taking them off, and did you get better power?
The dirty air filter problem I eliminated with the use of the K/N air filter.
I searched all around to find one , finally called direct and the one for the v90, 98 model worked they only had a couple of them in stock at the time so was able to order direct 50 bucks. It can be cleaned and reused. I ran this same type filter on my 66, 427 galaxie with 2 fours from the factory.
This filter will really flow some air,
Thanks for the responces
Poolman