Hood clearance, big wrench in cog

I am having the same issue. I went from a high rise to a lower intake, put the drop base air cleaner on and the choke kept getting stuck on the top of the lid. I considered the K&N, but thought it would probably not solve the choke problem and may not even help with airflow so close to the hood.
I ended up with a small air cleaner and removed the base to make it fit- no wing nut, just a nut- I hate it.
I was thinking of a fresh air system, but I would still be dealing with the same 2 inches above the carb, (if that).
Saving for a fiberglass hood so I can put a real air cleaner on it and move some air; but I would also prefer a stock look.

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