Heat Shields on the exhaust pipe of a 33 1.7IE, are they necessary?

[Thevak]

Before I complete the gearbox changeover, what purpose does the heat shields on the exhaust from the engine to cat do? Is it for passenger comfort? It is quite extensive and I would rather lose the weight for sprinting purposes.

[Evan Bottcher]

Hmm body lightening, according to AROCA rules that would be one area of modification Mr Novak

Just kidding...! Can't say what the shields are originally for, but our Sud runs no shielding (nor carpet or deadener) and no ill effects.

[LukeC]

Shields upstream of cats are usually there to keep the exhaust temperature up. This lights up the cat quicker and keeps it alight at low revs.

A secondary benefit will be lower radiated  temperatures and noise.

In other words, the main reason is emissions. If the car is still going to be registered, the cat must stay, but you can turf the shields.

If the car is pre '86, you don't need the cat even if the engine is post....

[Sportscar Nut]

Believe the heat shields and plumbing to the air cleaner is to assist with cold starting but removed mine many years back as don't believe is required in Australia's climate.

Cheers
Paul

[Thevak]

You got to love this forum! So active and the information shared makes us all better for it.

PS I will weigh the difference.