Exhaust Heat Shield

I have a 1998 ford escort 1.6 si and since i purchased the car second hand i have had nothing but trouble with the exhaust heat shield constantly working loose and dropping on the exhaust. I have removed this as the part was so worn and the holes had worn away what holds the shield off. Is it safe to run the car with no heat shield also does anyone know a price for a new one from fords.

anyone that can help please do so thankyou

I have a 1998 ford escort 1.6 si and since i purchased the car second hand i have had nothing but trouble with the exhaust heat shield constantly working loose and dropping on the exhaust. I have removed this as the part was so worn and the holes had worn away what holds the shield off. Is it safe to run the car with no heat shield also does anyone know a price for a new one from fords.

anyone that can help please do so thankyou
By removing the heat shield you are endangering the other equipment around that area to be exposed to a lot of heat, that might fail because of it. And it might cause a fire.
I suggest you postion the heat shield back into place and secure it with a big hose clamp. You can get them from the dealership, it costs about 5 to 10 bucks.