Different type of question:

I have an 80 Z28 with a bug catcher sitting about 3" above the
hood line (see link in my sig for a visual).

This year I'd like to modify the OEM "tear drop" fiberglass hood
scoop to fit around the bug catcher. Basically, cut a hole through
the tear drop scoop.

My concern is, will that hinder air pressure , or the amount of air
entering the scoop (no...I don't mean "ram-air" effect) ?

The reason I ask is...I have read that the high pressure areas
occur a few inches over the body line. I've also understood that
a fluid will not travel along the surface of an object.

Is it wise to set the bug catcher flush with the new hood scoop,
or should I modify the scoop such that the bug catcher opening
sits a few inches above?

Option C: Maybe I should just relax because it's not going to make
any difference?

 

Option C sounds good. You realize that the highest pressure area on your hood is at the base of the windshield, right? If you want more air to be forced into the bug catcher, turn it around backwards.

The reason Pro Stockers have high forward facing scoops is that their carbs ar way up there. Note where Nextel Cup cars get engine air. It's not on the hood or in the grille area.

The zero flow is at the surface and a few air molecules deep above it. By the time you get to an inch or so, you are approaching free-stream velocity unless there is lots of turbulance, which there probably is.

 

Thanks for clearing that up.

I know all about the cowl induction systems...or should I say...
I found that out the hard way.

When I first bought the car, it was a cool thing to rip out the 'useless'
cold air induction system and replace it with an open element
to allow lots of hot under hood air into my engine.

Along with throwing out the air cleaner assembly, I cut the hood
apart to clear the filter element.

Try and find a suitable replacement hood that isn't rusted out
or the OEM cold air induction system!

I've even priced out a custom fab box (similar to NASCAR) to isolate
the hot under hood air - too much $$$...hence the bug catcher!