i have a '91 ls, and i was wondering if the heat shield above the cat is really needed, i can see there are some hoses there as well as some some transmishion components (shifter, etc) and i was just wondering if it would damage to take that shield off... its been rattling lately and all the bolts have been replaced and tightened.

 

It won't really cause damage, but you will probably feel extra heat in the shifter area if you remove the shield. Keep in mind that the rattling of the shields is rarely caused by the upper shield. Usually the lower one is the culprit.

 

i removed one of my heat shields. i can feel the heat coming up the e-brake when i drive for a while.

 

OH WOW that completely escaped me thanks man i never thought of that

 

yea, i wouldn't take the one that is above the Cat....below is the one i've ripped off before due to ratteling