Intake manifold support brackets

[BlackZ28629]

The intake manifold support brackets...Do I need them, or can they be left off? It seems like the oil filter would be more accessible if they were left off (or at least one of them)...Who's done it?

[Morph]

I wouldnt advise not running it but my old SR came w/out it and i ran it for 5 years w/ no issues. My new motor has the bracket and I did reinstall it. Not sure wtf it would hurt but i dont have any issues removing the filter with or with out it on.

[BlackZ28629]

do you use an oil filter wrench? Do you take it off from the top or bottom? I usually use one of the compression-strap style wrenches, but it doesn't look like I'd be able to use that on this motor...it's tight! What a horrible place to put the filter! Also, the oil filter sandwich plate: is it worth getting for oil pressure gauge? does it leak? Make the filter harder to take out? Thanks!

[Morph]

I use a fitler wrench from the top and it works fine. Not sure about the, sandwich plate im not running one but, i've heard others use them with out an issues.