Exactly, the only function is looks. I'm sure it does hold in some heat, it has to. Yes I like the way it looks, as it covers some other unsightly crap, but is in the way come time to change plugs and such. It comes off with two allen head screws, so that is not a big inconvenience. I've never noticed any higher IAT's than any other comparable set-up though and as I'm sure is the same with everyone else's set-up that is spraying meth, after a good run, if you pull over immediately and check the supercharger; it's fairly cool to the touch.