Plastic Shield

[mapman97]

Hey All,
I have recently removed the plastic shield that is placed under the oil pan and oil filter. Now that I have tracked down all the oil leaks and continue to repair, very minor, I am thinking of leaving the plastic shield off. It sure is nice when changing the oil and just having the clarity of all the undersides of the engine. Has anyone had any problems with the sheild off? I had an 01 Discovery, but don't remember if that plastic shield was installed. So, those of you who own 01 or 02 model years, do you have a plastic shield under the oil pan and above the differential? It has a round opening for the oil filter replacement.

 

[Lake_Bueller]

My '01 didn't have the shield. But I'm not sure if it was removed and not reinstalled or never there. I removed it from my '04 after my first attempt at changing the oil.

 

[Roach]

My 03 has one, I am keeping it on, as it helps to keep the dust down in engine compartment and is not in the way tucked up there.
atriot:

 

[KyleT]

mine hasnt had one for a loong time, not even the small one right behind the radiator. no ill affects.

it was added to catch oil drips in 2003.

 

[Roach]

Pretty sure it was designed to direct airflow underneath the car...

 

[KyleT]

Pretty sure it was designed to direct airflow underneath the car...

i was joking. you are probably right. but it still wont hurt anything.

 

[cyoc62]

...it was added to catch oil drips in 2003.

Not to mention the oil it catches when you change the oil. I removed mine about the third oil change. Dust hasn't been a problem.

 

[mnfeo2]

I tossed mine about 2 years ago and have never looked back.

 

[knewsom]

"plastic shield"? Whassat?