Had PPE headers installed and had starter replaced with a new OEM starter just for prevention. But while replacing the starter, we found that there was no heat shield. I bought the car used with 59k miles and have driven the car for about 23k miles without the starter going out (with OEM headers). Could tell that the car had headers before from the previous owner. But is the heat shield something I should install down the line? Also i had the headers ceramic coated black by PPE if that helps with the cooling. Anyone have a similar setup?

 

I used all OEM heat shields with the PPE headers. Just had to bend or pound one of them if I believe. Wasn't too bad.

 

Yes the previous owner may have tossed it..

I would for sure buy a new starter heat shield..

Also make sure you install a new starter harness cover too..






Joe Z

 

I have similar setup where my PPE headers are ceramic coated (black), and I've completely removed all the heatshields. While the headers were installed, I also replaced my starter motor. Can't comment on longevity, it's been 3000 miles or so for me, without heatshields (with PPE headers and starter motor replaced). The only heatshields in the engine bay are the ones around my upgraded RR Racing Motor mounts.

 

What made you want to remove the heat shield? I've read that for PPE headers, removing heat shields is not needed for fitment. But good to know your starter hasn't been fried

 

HOLY CRAP BRO this thing crumbled into near dust when i tried taking it off lol.

 

That and the little connector that goes in the end of the starter shattered in my fingers when I went to disconnect it. Glad I had a new one on hand.

 

You can do way better then this plastic “shield” it’s called header wrap and vulcanizing tape.

 

Won't matter what you put on there, it's going to crystallize over time. Between the engine and the header? Never going to be cool at all. All the thing has to do is prevent shorts. The OEM piece does that just fine until you hit it.

 

Or breathe near it.

 

Since I got my headers installed by a shop, I realized that every time I go back when there are noises (and did actually end up with a few noises once the headers were installed), it takes time and effort out of my day drop it off/pick it up, arrange transportation, etc. Although, there may not be a fitment issue with the stock heat shields with the PPE headers, I just decided to remove it altogether so in the event there are noises, it eliminates the possibility of it being the heat-shields and could focus effort of figuring out where noises comes from elsewhere.