Plastic Undercarriage Panel - '89 190E 2.6

Gentlemen,

While reconning for a saturday morning oil change, I removed the plastic engine panel to locate the oil filter. Duh! I finally found it - up top.

Anyway, I read that this panel is used to keep engine noise down. But after two days of driving without it (it was being degreased) I really didn't notice any noise difference. Which brings me to my question...

Can I leave the panel off permanately to allow air flow for the engine? Although my car does not run hot, I just like the fact that I this may offer better air circulation to help dissipate engine heat.

Thanks for replies.

------------------