[lippy]

Eric,
I had clearance problems with my big block. I tried *everything*. Drop base, you name it. The best solution for me was to use a 9" flat-bottomed base and (I think) a 2.75" high air filter from K&N, with a custom top. This way it fits up into the scoop. I checked clearance by placing clay on all corners of the top and measuring how far they compressed. I wanted to leave a minimum of 1/4" for engine movement. It's been running with this setup for awhile and seems to be working well. Hope that helps a bit.