The aluminum shields are meant to keep dirt and rocks out of the area. The car can be driven without them but for safety purposes it is best if they are put back on. The little bolts tend to break off when you remove them making them harder to remove and reinstall. P. J. Grady sells a metal strip with 3 studs attached so it is easy to remove and replace without taking the battery out or removing the carpet in the "vault". David Teitelbaum vin 10757 --- In dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx, "vanisland03" <vjca@xxxx> wrote: > What is the purpose of the 2 aluminum pans that bolt under the > battery and storeage compartments and clip to the frame. I have them > off now due to my frame rebuild. Question is do they have to go back > on and what purpose do they provide other than getting in the way ? > Thanks Vic > #1794