Do I need Monolithic Converter Protectors?

[Chaldaean]

The clamshell-type shields on my exhaust are rusting, loose and noisy. I took one off a few months ago and haven't replaced it yet. Now, I need to remove a second one.

What is the purpose of these covers? I've heard they are for fire prevention if you are driving/parking in tall grass.

I'm wondering if I need to replace them or just leave them off.

 

[bloc]

Fire prevention in the grass, but they also dramatically reduce the infrared aka radiant heat coming off the cats. The shield itself absorbs the radiant heat, where airflow can dissipate some of that thermal energy.

Without the shields that radiant heat will directly heat everything around them.. the front driveshaft, transmission case, frame, ground, grass…. And moving air doesn’t do a good job of reducing this effect.