cowling restriction

[Juggernaut]

do the covers on outboard engines restrict the air flow to the carbs?
ive never really put any thought into it before. where does the engine get the air from? if covers do restrict air flow, would taking the covers off possibly get you 1-2 mph top end? i know it makes it louder:D
i'd run my engine w/o the covers anyways if they didnt look so damn good! just sent out all engine parts for paint. came out great.
anyways, anybody know about outboard air flow?

[Tony Montana]

carb motor, no cover, w/o re-jetting, bring a tow line.:( No need to ram air down their throats IMHO. Ventilation that allows clean cool air to the carbs and warm bad air out is good, just make sure if you start messing with it you are also adjusting your jets.

[Jeff_G]

There are openings for air flow. Most motors are tuned and jetted for the cowls. Some motors you will lean them out and blow the motors without the cowls to say nothing about the dirt, water etc that will get in and on the motors.

[Juggernaut]

so if i was to run no cowls, and richen the carbs up, would i gain anything?