i can get a dual snorkel without the thermac equiptment: (the hole is bondoed up and the fins removed) i figure it has less restrictions but what are the downsides to having no thermac?

i know one could be a longer warmup especially with a carb?

but is there a driving problem ascociated?

what about the little valve that comes off of the exhaust manifold does that need to get plugged or will it just "chill there" and not bother anything?

thats what would happen if i went with an open element anyway so any knoledge is apreciated thanks

 

Without the thermac heater unit your carb (same for TB too I think) will freeze up while drinving in conditons significantly below zero deg Celsuis.
Maybe you live in a warm climate or don't winter drive so this wouldn't be a problem.

 

I've had mine disabled exactly as you've mentioned for almost 4 years with no ill effects. Even in temps as low as 5-10*F no icing problems.

 

Maybe it only happens with smaller cars (I drove a chevette in highschool and it would freeze up with the thermac working), but that was in -40*C (I think thats -40*F too). I had a buddy with a 4cyl. Ford he had the same problem when the little aluminum tube to the heat shield fell off.
When you pull the air cleaner top off you will see a lot of milky foam in your carb and air cleaner.