heat shields

[rob walker]

I have ordered a new exhaust system and middle heat shield. Unfortunately the heat shield is on back order for maybe 2 months.
Is it easy to fit the heat shield at a later date with the exhaust in situ or does the exhaust have to be removed for fitment, in which case I will delay fitment of new exhaust.

Rob Walker

1968 280SL papyrus white/green leather
2004 230 SLK silver

[jeffc280sl]

Hi Rob,

The center section heat shield can be added to the car after the exhaust system is installed.  Mine was mounted using sheet metal screws which were installed in between the two pipes.  The shield is not flat and I believe? it can be inserted in place without lowering the pipes.  In the worst case, if the pipes are installed tightly to the under side of the car you may have to remove some rubber o rings to lower the the pipes just a very small amount to fit the shield in place. The shield is aluminum and very pliable.

Jeff C.
1970 280SL 4-speed

[rwmastel]

Maybe a more important questions is:  Does operating the car without the heat shield risk causing damage to the car?

Rodd
Powell, Ohio, USA
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both  tops
1994 E420

[rob walker]

Rodd, now you have me worried[:0] I am looking forward to 2 weeks back in the UK when I will be driving the car a lot, but without the shield as it has been missing as long as I have owned the car but running with the old steel system rather than the new SS system. I will have to wait for the arrival of the shield in maybe a month, but not to be able to use her when I am back would be a real disappointment. Does the SS system generate more heat? I have brand new carpets and the old ones were somewhat heat damaged around the tunnel area, guess I had just better put some heat reflective material between the floor and the carpet in the meantime as I don't want to damage the new carpet. Wonder whether aluminium foil would work?

Rob Walker

1968 280SL papyrus white/green leather
2004 230 SLK silver

[jeffc280sl]

Rob,  

The heat shield is mounted via two standoffs about 1/4 inch from the underside of the car.  Any similar reflective material mounted in the same area should provide the same sort of protection.  If the weather is coolish and you are not driving in hot stop and go city traffic I think you will be okay.  Take it for a spin anyway and feel the inside section of the passenger side floor pan for excessive heat.

Jeff C.
1970 280SL 4-speed

[Raymond]

The stainless won't be any hotter.  It's the exhaust gas temp that determines that.  To be safe, simple sheet metal on the stand-offs will do until you get the real deal. You might not really need anything for short term putting around.  If it was August in Miami traffic, it wouldn't be good.  April on an English A road?    I wish I could join you.

Ray
'68 280SL 4-spd Coupe