Seeing as forgetful as you are...make sure to disconnect the battery!
I think that way back when folks used to do things like that in an attempt to get more airflow. What it really did was ruin the MAF because it ended up getting an innacurate sampling. I'll be working on my car today after 5:00. (new plugs and wires) I'll see if I can get some pics taken of the MAF while I'm in there.