does anyone know if the edelbrock has speacial clamps because my stock clamps seem short..

I have not come across any reference stating otherwise.

any idea why the tabs on the tri power intake are shorter than the tabs on the stock one?

There is some type of spring used under the clamp.

AAHHHHH you so smart.... now for the bonus points do you know where i can get some of these??? should i just make some??? should i just remake the clamp???

...I have actually noticed them. I thought the runner ears (OEM and EDEL) were the same size. Might have been EDELBROCK specific. I guess strap steel, but it looks like they are springed to me.

What would be bitchin' is to machine hold downs from billet.

That is precisly what im gonna do.. i think maybe in the shape of the lincoln star... but ill have to toss a couple of designs around....