Been reading the archives on this procedure and still not clear if this is a modification that is SAFE and will cause NO weird effects on performance. I live in California, so it doesn't really get cold. In fact, we are going through a heat wave right now! Hot! Anyhow, is the above procedure in the title a GO or a NO GO? Or should I just disconnect the pre-heater hose at the manifold end and position it away from the engine heat?

I don't know, I read somewhere that one must do this with caution because you could mess up the emission and performance of the engine by blocking or sealing the thermostat air flap. But for the most part, many people have said removing the hose and blocking the air box hole will cause no ill effects, much less any effect at all, unless you live in a cold climate or in an area where the winter season can get really cold.

I guess I really need some advice and assurance about doing this mod.

What to do?