When I disable mine, I do it electrically by unplugging the control solenoid. leaving the vacuum connected and the valves closed. when the ECU tells it to open the signal goes unnoticed by the actuator and it just does nothing stays the same. Been telling people to use this method if going the disabling route, but per the usual no one really listens.

When I bought my first Gen 2 (a 95 lease turn in with 30K miles) in 97 Mine was unplugged by the dealer when I got it. A mitsu master tech told me it was common practice. Doesent make it right and johnny B probably has the best solution. The Kia guys haven't gone unscathed by the butterflies or the crank bolt.