I'm about to refit the rebuilt engine in my Range Rover 4.6 HSE. The Exhaust manifolds are the stainless steel tubular type, and these have heat shields on them. They are in two parts which are fitted behind and infront, sort of clam shell like. They're a real pig to remove if the securing bolts have seized, as typically they will on exhaust components. I've seriously damaged mine, and I'm contemplating not replacing them, they cost about =A3200 a set. I've seen some pictures of a late Disco without heat shields, and am wondering how important they are on the Range Rover? Could I just leave them off? Any ideas as why they are fitted?
Alan C