Do I need a new mechanic?

The Air gap is probably the best designed intake on the market. A buddy of mine ran across an article that tested about 12 different intakes from mild to wild and the Air-gap had the broadest torque curve of all tested. It would surprise me if you'd loose enough low end torque to even feel much of a difference. The Air-gap design cools the intake charge which builds torque. Like the others said I don't think you'd need the spacer but you are correct in thinking it would (or at least should) help low end torque.