M20b27 intake brace, is it really needed?

[Pantless Spency]

Thoughts? It's hideous personally...
If it is in fact needed I might swap out for a late model one with a late model valve cover, will this work with an eta intake manifold?
Pic for reference.

[jeffnhiscars]

I wouldnt drive without the brace since Im quite sure its there to relieve stress on the IM flanges.

If the VC gaskets are the same PN then the cover will fit. The "i" brace does have slots so there is some wiggle room but not knowing if the vacuum flange in the "e" manifold is in exactly the same position (height, on plane, side to side offset etc) as an "i", I'd say trial and error.

My guess is it should work if the VC fits...and yes, that is one ugly brace :-)

[Pantless Spency]

Pretty sure the valve covers share the same mating surface. Thanks for the input.