Broke oil filter housing

Just changed my oil (05 Tacoma, 2.7L) , when removing the oil filter I broke the "heat shield" off the oil filter housing. I must have wedged the filter wrench against it and broke it off, if that is the case it had a crack or I'm stronger than my wife thinks I am...

Anyone else run across this one? The housing portion that accepts the filter/gasket is fine, I'm pretty sure the filter is secure and wont leak. I'm tempted to not replace the housing but thinking Toyota put the heat shield there for a reason. At least I think it's a heat shield.

You can see the housing in this diagram, http://tps.toyotaofdallas.com/parts...eid=1431546&diagram=8512185&diagramCallOut=10.
It's number 10 and you can just make out the portion that extends below the filter seat.

Thanks

 

Not really a heat shield as the oil going into the filter is at engine temperature already. If the filter seals and doesn't leak I wouldn't worry about it either.

 

I dont think its a heat shield. Ironically I think its a filter guard and apparently not a strong one.

 

I am about to change my oil and will be paying attention to the shield, just wondered what the housing shield is designed for? Why did Toyota design it this way?

 

^This. I would check the area for cracks first then proceed. Change the oil and filter, and start the truck. I image you will find out pretty fast if there is a crack.