Stock turbo insulator/heat shield pieces
 

Got a question regarding those stock sheet metal heat shields/insulator pieces Mazda saw fit to install around the turbo & exhaust mainfold on FC's. Most of mine were rusted so badly that they can't be used again - the only one that is in reusable shape is the large piece that wraps around the turbine side. The exhaust manifold insulator & other pieces are basically rusted to bits.

Would it hurt anything to leave these off (except for the perviously mentioned piece), or should I pick up some new ones from Mazda? Any good aftermarket alternatives out there?

On my N/A I ran without the exhaust manifold heat shield for years and didn't notice any issues besides everything in the engine bay being really hot and the rubber lines on that side of the bay needed to be replaced every couple years. I'm sure it robbed me of some power and such but as far as damaging things other than the rubber lines (all 1 of them on my car + vacuum caps), not that I noticed.

I never used mine on my TII. It didn't seem to make much difference. If you want, I think you can get a turbo blanket that fits the stock Hitachi.

I did some searching a while ago and couldnt find anything. Who makes a blanket that fits? Summit has two one says t4 one t3.

isn't there stuff out there you can use to make your own?

btw mine are rusted away, too. the final piece fell of just last week. I might fab up something a little beefier though 'cause I kinda like having that little thermal protection. I think the most critical piece is the one right between the turbo and LIM to keep heat out of the intake charge.

I've got a turbo swap in my vert and rebuilding the engine. My manifold heat shield is fine. But before my rebuild happened the tabs on my turbo shield started coming off. The ones that bolt the shield down. I got frustrated with the shield rattling against the turbo and cut my shielding off.

I'm thinking of doing this turbo blanket through Prosport. I'm getting some things from them anyway and the price is right.

http://prosportgauges.com/turbo-heat...t-t3-Grey.aspx

Just as Jeff mentioned, support one of the forum sponsors:

http://www.rotarycarclub.com/rotary_...ighlight=turbo

ooh those are nice.