This reply is for Michael C Henry. I had the same problem with my Shelby Cobra (CSX4039) where the K&N filters wouldn't fit. What I did was to twist them which made them thin enough to clear the hood. I'm including a link to a picture of the engine which is in the current owners picture gallery. Hope it works.
http://www.clubcobra.com/photopost/s...sort=1&cat=500
Bob