89 300CE 200k+

Recently the shrouding on my cat rotted off. That dragging sound was sheet metal rubbing the road. I just pulled it all away. There seemed to be a little asbestos or some kind of white stuff between the shield and the cat.
Checking my records, it's been at least 80K miles since exhaust system installed. I'd like it to last even longer.
Is it worth knocking some tin to re-shape some protection? Or was it there only to keep the weeds on the dirt roads from burning? I'm in the Northeast and salt is an issue. I can't find a specific replacement for the part.
The exhaust makes no bad noises, sounds as good as ever.

Sounds like an aftermarket catalyst.. the original didn't even have a heat shield.

Shouldn't be an issue unless you park in high grass & could catch it on fire.

__________________
MERCEDES Benz Master Guild Technician (6 TIMES)
ASE Master Technician
Mercedes Benz Star Technician (2 times)
44 years foreign automotive repair
27 Years M.B. Shop foreman (dealer)
MB technical information Specialist (15 years)
190E 2.3 16V ITS SCCA race car (sold)
1986 190E 2.3 16V 2.5 (sold)
Retired Moderator

My 87 SEC appears to have the remains of a heat shield over the cat. Are you sure? I'm reasonably certain that it's original.

__________________
" We have nothing to fear but the main stream media itself . . . ."- Adapted from Franklin D Roosevelt for the 21st century

OBK #55

1998 Lincoln Continental - Sold
Max 1984 300TD 285,000 miles - Sold
The Dee8gonator 1987 560SEC 196,000 miles - Sold
Orgasmatron - 2006 CLS500 90,000 miles
2002 C320 Wagon 122,000 miles
2016 AMG GTS 12,000 miles