Sorry bit confused, so you did remove the cover but you didnt need to because of the air filter?
I am unaware of any air filter that requires the engine cover to be removed.
Oh right does that go for the same if I have the cold air feed aswell instead of just the panel?
Pop charger sounds like a good choice, need to hear it will have to go on youtube and see if I can see anything on there that I can listen to on a 350z.