Didn't mean to ignore anyone, I just didn't get the feed back to my email about replies on this thread.
For what is worth I had to slightly open the cowl only on the left side to clear the plug cap, it is just above 3/8" so an opening might still needed even with the conversion.
For the baffle I use a dummy engine built from various parts.
Kevin, I'll see you at Warbirds Over Denver just get more flights on the Corsair to get ready!