Changing the Engine Air Filter

[355HP Z71]

Has anyone changed their Engine Air Filter yet??? If so is it necessary to remove the maf sensor and filter housing like it says in the owners manual ? I know on the old silverado's this was not needed . I am told it is because of the metal bar that goes across the housing . So I guess the question is if you loosen that bar and turn it can you just take out the 4 screws and lift the cover up to change the filter like on the older trucks.