to remove that metal piece you can get a cutoff wheel and cut it off, a torch or what most people do, get a big hammer and keep beating it on its side till it comes off. as far as ports go, it doesnt really matter where you put them. mine is one the side of my box. the best thing to do for our cars is to either point them up towards the window so the sound reflects forward, or build them on the front wall so the sound goes directly forward. if you have AIM, let me know, IM me, im on a lot and i can help you out and get you some pics. ive got photos of my system or i can make you a diagram.

I just wish my car was as fast as it was loud. people tell me i should use my sub to push it, it might go faster.