K&N air cleaner question

[zmojo]

Well, having installed the drop-in, it still isn't opening up the airflow much. I suspect the screen located in front of the mass air flow detector is the culprit. I tried to get it off without tearing anything up but it is on there solid. I wonder if anyone has taken it out, or if the complete induction packages eliminate it. I am guessing that it directs/modifies the airflow pattern but it sure looks restrictive at the same time. Anybody know?
zmojo