m42duster

I do not know what it is called. The vinyl rubbery engine gard cover that is underneath the engine compartment. Anyhow, how important is this thing? Mine is hanging loose and ripped in areas. Can I just yank it out or should I fix it back up right.

2000 XJ 4.0

UserID6095

Its a splash guard. And yes you can remove it with no adverse effects. Some may say it helps with cooling but I say nay.

gpXJ

I've heard and read both ways. Some say rip it out you don't need it (which seems to be a common sentiment on a lot of parts for those guys with trail-mainly rigs), and some say they wouldn't drive their XJ without it. Helps keep mud and debris out of your alternator and several other lower engine components...

With that being said, I pulled mine off, but mainly just because I was trying to get to something above it and it got in my way and made me mad. I was planning on finding another one and slapping it back on there....eventually.

BuckB91XJ

I kept mine on for the first 3 years I had my Jeep because I like many others thought that it served some useful purpose like keeping the engine clean or cool. Mine did neither especially when off raod. All it did was get in the way when trying to access the bottom of the engine. So, I removed it and even offroading the bottom of the engine does not get much dirtier than it did with the cover on. I think the Jeep runs a little cooler without it. I bet it will run a lot cooler without it and when I install my hood vents.

mike albo

Mines missing,dosn't seem to have any adverse affects, I say pull it off

jonnyb78

mine came off and has yet to find its way back on. its been about 6 months

COSXJFAN

X2!! I had mine for quite some time as well, and it isn't but maybe a little dirtier now than it was then. I'm freak when it comes to a clean engine bay though. I wash mine almost every time I wheel. I like a clean EB, IMHO, it allows you to see potential problems, before they become day enders!!