Gap Guard??

Hey guys, I purchased a 2011 DCLB TRD-Sport last week from a gentleman up in Oklahoma. Truck has been well maintained, however, I noticed in my wheel well a big opening that I have noticed on other trucks is not there. Initially I thought it was the internal fender liner but it is not. I have found it is called a gap guard, it protects the engine from things the wheel well might pick up apparently. I have posted pictures of the area I am talking about, should I cover it up or can I leave it alone??? If I in fact do need to cover it, what should I use or where should I buy?

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/tacoma-wheel-well-splash-guards.419104/#post-11925291




There was another guy around here selling some that he made....but I can't seem to find it.

 

I kind of want to know if it is actually a necessity first before I go buying

 

Well I'm no expert, but I've seen pics where guys remove them for whatever reason. But again, don't take my word for it!

 

Water splashed onto hot exhaust headers can shorten their life. There are other components there (starter, steering shaft U-joint) which can fail earlier with greater contamination.

 

There you go... What @KenLyns just said

 

Did the previous owner remove the factory liners? See them in this pic:

 

These are temporary, I am making Carbon Fiber aprons and will be selling them soon.