Q 45 Engine Lower Cover

Other than to catch oil leaks, or act as a splash guard, I can't think of any other reasons....I might consider the local junkyard for an option, if only to have a replacement available...

Thank you for the response

No real reason to replace other than keeping the car original and slippery through the air.

Instead of replacing it with a new one you can make some new holes (I am assuming it's the mounting holes that are rooted) and just attaching it with sturdy cable ties. Removal and replacement then just requires a pair of snips and new cable ties.

If it is cracked then you can stitch it up with cable ties as well.

I figure you could buy a lot of cable ties with the money you save.

I carry around cable ties in my 4x4 for emergency lash ups (even holding cargo). They are strong.

Wire is a good alternative to cable ties as well. Cable ties are just quicker and easier.

In these parts most automotive plastic components are repairable (plastic welded) by clever nimble folk with simple equipment. They even build up lost bits with scrap plastic. The result is strong enough and very inexpensive.

When a similar plastic cover on my corvette broke I discarded it only to discover it altered the air flow for engine cooling. Rather than risk cooking my engine I repaired the problem. Try and see if you can do without yours and not risk cooking your engine.

I have been watching the engine temperature. So far no increase in 40 miles on fairly level terrain. We live in southern AZ and the ambient has been 100 F +.

Does it have a vertical lip to it? If so it could be used to deflect air up into the engine. It also might serve to protect the under part of the engine. I would recommend replacing it with one from a junk yard, used, or repairing it. If it is getting damaged, it is likely protecting something else from getting damaged.

Fender washers are wide washers with smaller holes in them. They can be used if it is only the holes in the plastic that are bad. But if the plastic is so bad that it is in pieces, a replacement is in order. Try junk yards, Body shops (for a usable one from an accident) or the internet. Good luck, and do not rule out plastic welders also. They are cheap, and do work.

re-inforce it with metal flat bar. include an access hole to the drain plug. also look for after market parts that are sturdier.