Bob, thanks for that suggestion and it does look like it has huge airflow and very little restriction but I'm going to continue exploring a solution using a "look" I'm digging right now.

Dave, I dumped my "convoluted hose" too; you can see it on the old ZZ4 pic above but now I have "normal" hoses. I know some people like the "dressed" look with that piece but I just don't like it...which is odd since my wife often says I'm convoluted!?!!

I found this picture of what is described as a '37 Ford with a Chevy big block and it has what looks like my air cleaner housing but with this thicker K&N I mentioned above. I think I can make that fit so I'm going for it.