I am currently replacing the cadle and control arm bushings in my 86GT ( Cradle and Poly bushings fom the Fiero Store). While I have the engine out (Thanks for all the great posts on engine removal) I had the exhaust manifold that was completly broke in half welded and reinforced today here at work. my question is, is the heat sheild that mounts between the front manifold and the head necessary? The mating surface of the shield is in bad shape due to corrosion and leaking for an extended period of time. would there be any real issues if i OMIT this shield during reassembly? It looks as if it only keeps heat from the block from the engine compartment. BTW I have looked at a '97 3800 SC yesterday with only 64k on it - sitting on the floor at this guys shop. He's only asking $700.00 for it. He says it ran great. Sooo... In the near future I will be in swap mode. yehaa. I will wait to start the swap untill I get everything first to minimize the down time, like mounts from PURPLE REIGN (they look really good and strong) and a wire harness made.

Just keep an eye on your wires, I lost mine. Realy lost it, got mad and gave it a fling and cant find it.

The purpose of that sheild: If you crack or put a rod through the block it is supposed to help keep the oil from hitting the cat converter and the rest of the exhaust. It was installed as part of the fire safety recall. My 86 that hasn't had the recalls done doesn't have it. It's your call on putting it back. If it was in good shape I'd say keep it on the engine, but since you say it has errosion around the ports it may not seal. I'm sure there's lots of them out there if you want one.

Dave