Heat Shield on Exhaust Pipe

[Fredo24]

I was under my 1996 LX 450 the other day and found the Heat Shield that is on the pipe that comes off of the exhaust manifold into the first cat has decayed and has fallen off. The pipe is not near anything that can be burnt by the heat. What is the purpose of this shield and should I replace it? Thanks.

 

[Koffer]

I was under my 1996 LX 450 the other day and found the Heat Shield that is on the pipe that comes off of the exhaust manifold into the first cat has decayed and has fallen off. The pipe is not near anything that can be burnt by the heat. What is the purpose of this shield and should I replace it? Thanks.

Not unless your looking at spending $1500+ for a new front cat from Toyota . Mine was left somewhere on the salty roads of NJ a long time ago . I replaced my front cat with a aftermarket direct replacement unit and it didn't come with a heat shield .

 

[KimoSabe]

Took mine off a few months back, was rotted out and had dents most likely from kicked up rocks. The only other thing I was most concerned about was the rubber body mount that it runs close to. If that becomes a problem then may have to re-install one.

 

[Cruiser804]

Yeah, as was said cannot be purchased separately. So you'd need to purchase the entire front y-pipe. Mine has been off for 4-5 years with not adverse affects so far.

 

[zx9r]

Instead of replacing sheilds, I put stuck some heat shielding directly to the underside of the floorboard. Can't remember where I purchased it (may $30-40 for a few sq ft) but seems to be working out fine after close to a year.

 

[zx9r]

search for EMS Powered exhaust and you will see some pics of what I used.

 

[jeph]

Leave it off, you won't hurt a thing.

 

[VanGo]

Remove it as others have suggested. I am on my second Y-pipe/cat and have removed both and grinded down the remaining welds...