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In researching a new muffler for my F150, the Walker Exhaust recommendation for my truck shows an add-on heat shield for the muffler. The no-name muffler I've had for the last 10+/- years doesn't have one with no apparent ill effects, but ... is it a good idea to have one? 1991 F150 XLT Lariat 5.0 E40D
Some mufflers can get very hot on some applications, especially if you have no cat. I don't think Fords are among the vehicles that need them, but I've heard of Jeeps getting exceptionally hot.
You don't need a heat shield. None of my trucks have heat shields. OE mufflers get hot as hell because they are so restrictive so shields may be necessary for some vehicles where the muffler gets close to parts. Theres enough room under your truck though.
Well, I took off the old muffler today and guess what? There is a heat shield after all, or rather several of them that run from the cat back over the axle. They are about 12" wide pieces of sheet metal attached under the truck bed with a small air gap. Who knew? Anyway, there is no need to add one.