Gosh Karl, it's hard to argue with any of your self characterizations.
Al's experience with losing 61hp pretty much tells the tale. Major restriction going on, you're running richer now, which probably contributes to the higher rpm.
Between the shallow sides, and inefficient filter media, there's a lot of opportunity for limiting air volume. I'd go with the suggestion to bag the mustachioed smiley faces, except for all those sun shiney show days we have, for a good K&N setup. Look into the xtreme line with the filter in the top piece as well to maximize air flow. There should be a drop base unit that will give you some space relief. Personally I think you should run a filter(s), gotta keep those rocks, birds, and little children out of the engine.
