Keep under hood plastic shields?

[WTITW]

Starting to add some stuff under the hood. Is there any reason not to just toss the plastic shields that hide the engine? Are they for anything other than looks and minimal noise suppression?

 

[jmanscotch]

I’d argue to keep the main large piece between the grill and the core support as it helps air flow to the radiator. The rest is easily tossed.

 

[WTITW]

I’d argue to keep the main large piece between the grill and the core support as it helps air flow to the radiator. The rest is easily tossed.

Good point. I was thinking I'd keep that one and the large gray intake one just for looks and since I won't need to do anything in those areas anyway. Thanks.

 

[r2m]

I’d argue to keep the main large piece between the grill and the core support as it helps air flow to the radiator. The rest is easily tossed.

Agreed. The Lexus/Toyota engineers spend a lot of resources to optimize engine performance, which include cooling.
That is why I don't ever do anything (other than a snorkel) to the intake and exhaust. I really like my Toyota products lasting a half million miles!
I suggest leaving them on. Nobody ever sees them and the mechanics are used to them when they service your vehicle. In fact, dealing with all that plastic is a time/dollar amount already factored into the cost of maintenance. So removing the plastic lets the mechanic finish the job faster, BUT you still pay the same price!
Most mechanics (and all dealers) have a book that has set prices for almost anything done to your vehicle.