Is it a very bad idea to take off the heat shield from the stock headers? Mine rattle because of the bottom bolt missing, and it would be easier to take the ugly thing off rather than get a bolt in there. But I don't want to melt the top of my hood if that's what's going to happen!

 

You can take off the shield with no ill effects other than increased under hood temps. Most aftermarket headers do not have a heatshield.

 

but then aftermarket headers are made out of ceramic or whatnot...not cast iron like stock. but he is correct ...no ill effects when i have done it.

 

Cool, thank you guys.. I'm going to do it just to get rid of that damn rattle. And tonight: Grounding my engine bay.. whee!