Smog system, should i run it or de-gut and plug??

[XXXGoldL34M20]

I was wondering what you guys have done with your smog system on your Big Block Chevy's.
My friend has a 1969 Z-28 and he told me to de-gut the smog pump and plug the holes with roofing nails under the tubes on the manifold for better performance which he did to his own car.
I am currently putting together the entire Smog system for my LS6 454 and just wanted your opinions if i should just run it normally or de-gut and plug.