under-engine heat shield

[cfrank]

So, after just 1500 miles I had to jack it up to make a (small) repair

Left my C3 in the barn for a few days and then thought I'd better check... Yes, a marten has had some fun ripping apart an insulation / heat shield under the engine. It's a plastic part layered with glass wool insulation and aluminium.

It's held by seven bolts and a clip at the front.

The back of the shield just rests on top of a bar.
On the right you can see what the marten has done... It took the glass wool. Seems winter is coming...

Patched it with aluminium tape (used for exhaust repairs).

Question:
is the insulation supposed to protect the plastic from melting or is it to preserver engine heat?

[Ozvtr]

Question:
is the insulation supposed to protect the plastic from melting or is it to preserver engine heat?

The insulation will be there to stop the plastic from warping/deforming/melting. The plastic shield is a splash/stone guard to protect delicate components like electrical connectors and wiring.

[cfrank]

Thank you. Makes sense. I guess I'd better replace the missing glass wool then...
Why the cut outs? Will have a look to see what's not covered.