Tunnel Heat Shield & Console Heat

[Top Cog]

I had the honor of meeting our fellow-Z06er, The Machine, today under the guise of work. One of the topics we discussed was console heat and I really haven't felt it as others have mentioned...even after a 1,500 mile run through VA & NC this past July. The Machine looked under my `06 Z and discovered that I have a full-length tunnel heat shield that he doesn't have on his `08. Mine came off the line 16 June `06.

Anyone know when BG stopped installing them and why? I assume they can be ordered from GM parts but may be a bear to install without dropping the exhaust system.

And here I was thinking I didn't feel the heat `cause I was driving too easy.

[chjw]

I've got an 07 built in August of 06. What would I look for or what does the heat shield look like? I can check mine. I've made several long hot weather trips and haven't had a heat problem. The center console maybe warm, but it's not hot.

[Top Cog]

Hey, chjw, "the machine" will be able to describe what to look for better than I. If he doesn't pick up on this thread, I suggest you e-mail him. He knew exactly what to look for.

[itsaz]

I have an 08 that was built 10/2/07 and the tunnel plate was in place. I have since replaced it with the stainless steel one from Elite Engineering. Can't imagine that his was left off. If it was, I'd make the dealer get me a new one along with the 38 bolts that hold it on.

FWIW, the exhaust has to be dropped to remove/install the plate, but it doesn't have to come all the way off. Just remove the bolts at the intermediate pipe flange and at the spring support near the slip joint where the mufflers fit into the H pipe. The H pipe will then drop down just enough to remove the tunnel plate.