oil pick-up tube and screen

I am rebuilding my 350 and in the process I have pushed in the little tab inside the oil pick-up screen. My understanding is that this would serve as a bypass in the event the screen becomes clogged.

the question??????

o No:

would it be advisable to run without it?(the bypass tab that is)

would tyhe filter provide enough protection?

or should i just give year one 40 dollars for a new one?

Thanks

 

Get a new one:TU:

 

Acck...$40!!! Any aftermarket parts store will have the oil pump pickup tubes/screen for like ~$10...I bought one for my 350 from O'Reilly's for $8...Made by Melling...