water blocker
 

there is this plastic under my engine, im assuming it serves the purpose im blocking splash water from getting in my engine, well, its kiiiiiinda torn to shit, and i mean badly, there is barely anything left, should i just go ahead, and take it off and say whatever, or should i call like a mazda dealer to order me a new one?

I heard the same stories about older Camaros. If you remove that shield, or skidplate (what ever it might be or used for), the engine would overheat on the highway. Though, I would assume that it is there just to keep the debree hitting the engine and whatever other volitile parts that might be in that vicinity.

i took mine off because it was also torn up due to being lower and hitting some bumps and stuff...ive had it off for well over 4 months now and have had not 1 issue with the car...so i dont think you really need to worry about it...the car runs at the same temp as usual...nothing has gotten messed up...and no belts are squeeking or anything to that nature...so dont worry too much about taking it off...

why would a little plastic shield on the very bottom make an engine overheat??? my car hasnt had any issues...no oil burning...no smoking...no nothing...

Wouldn't this also help keep water out of the intake, preventing internal rust?

When going thru puddles this plasticdefinately keeps the water from going up into your engine area, the header from getting wet (except the bottom) and from your intake possibly sucking up water.

Hot air from a radiator... hmm hot air goes... UP The only way I think that is could help is by deflecting heat from the pavement which can get quite hot. Have you ever layed down on blacktop? That is the ONLY way I think that it could help the engine keeping cool. (By keeping less hot air from going into the engine bay)

I have mine, whats left of it. I just took some self-taping screws and zip zip in the plastic and in the frame. NOTE: becareful with the radiator and hoses. Also some ties straps are useful in this situation. Someone should give the inventor of the tie straps a Nobel prize although taking them off can be a BIATCH