heat shield broken?

[X-ception]

The heat shield that covers the exhaust manifolds broke in one spot and I am thinking about just removing it. I wouldn't think it would really hurt anything because it is just the piece that runs below the tb. The "crossover" piece. And its only on the underside closer to the tranny. Any suggestions? and how exactly does it come off? I was worried about it maybe rattling causing knock or something.

[illsmokeyou]

all 3 covers are bolted on with 10mm bolts.

although, to remove the crossover pipe cover (near the tranny), it will require as much work as replacing your thermostat, draining the coolant, and some coolant lines