Since I am replacing the intake gasket, why not make some modifacations along the way. The entire intake was off anyway.
http://thumb13.webshots.net/t/58/658/6/29/19/2370629190054440533uJNEot_th.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2370629190054440533uJNEot)

I decidce to remove the air restrictor on the intake plenum.
http://thumb13.webshots.net/t/62/562/9/56/20/2840956200054440533tmeJPB_th.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2840956200054440533tmeJPB)

Hacksaw did a very good job.
http://thumb13.webshots.net/t/58/658/9/22/45/2159922450054440533QdjjtV_th.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2159922450054440533QdjjtV)
If you do this mod, don't grind out the rivets!! If you do, your engine will idle high.

Now, I have to finish the rest of the coolant system so I can start it and drive it!

I need to do that too pretty soon. You just cut the cone off & left the 2 rivets & half plate on it? I was going to drill mine out & JB Weld the holes shut. I may have to try it your way. Thanks for the tip...

Yup. The half plate is okay with me. Hacksaw does a very good job. The metal is really soft. I didn't want to bother trying to JB Weld the holes.

I like the throttle response! Smooth accelleration throughout the RPM range. No hesitation right off idle. I definately notice the torque change. The oversided 255/60/17 tires bogged the 4.3 off idle. Now the engines loves the extra air flow. Acceleration is smooth. I would recommend this modification.

Do you have any tips for doing this mod without taking the throttle body off? Probably better not even try that. I need to quit being so lazy...

You don't need to remove the throttle body. Remove the air intake hose. Use small T-15 or T-20 star bit to remove the screws. Since the blade will be closed, the screws will not fall down the intake. Remove the screws before opening the plate for removal. Open the blade and slide it out. The blade slides through the middle of the shaft. Cut off the deflector. Clean it and file off any excess shavings. Reinstall. With the blade closed, install the screws.

You don't need to remove the intake unless you drop a screw down the intake.

hmmm, I just happen to have an extra one laying around to try this with.
why are they there in the first place? create turbulence in the plenum for increased MPG?

I heard its there because its the same throttle body as used on the 350's. There were some old people that were spinning the tires on the v6's because the throttle response was too much...........or something like that...

Update: I've gained 0.25 to 0.5 MPG. I need to run a few more tanks to know for sure. Highway speeds should show more since the blade will be open longer and wider.

So far, no regrets.

I just did an intake on a 5.7. they have the same body, but with a smaller "wing" on the blade.

I just did an intake on a 5.7. they have the same body, but with a smaller "wing" on the blade.

I think someone mentioned that they were the same as a 5.7 & you said I, I mean he was wrong. :lol: When you coming down? Sat or Sun?...

saturday. I will be leaving about 8:30 or so.

saturday. I will be leaving about 8:30 or so.

Sounds good, Ill be here...