i took of my heat sheild because it was rattleing and i dont see how it would make a difference if the heat shild was on or not. the heat shield only caovers the top of everything, keeping heat away from you, therefor if you parked in a field with or with out it, it doesnt make a difference, you could start a fire either way.i have a 5th gen , but my brother has a 6th gen, if i remember correctly, they are only on top too. BUT i do agree, it only ways 5 lbs, doesnt really make a difference.