How to fix rattling heat shield?

I have that common problem of the rattling heat shield. The one that is behind the right front tire. Does anyone know how I can fix it so it doesn't rattle anymore? I'm looking for a permanent fix.
Thanks!



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Chris
'00 Xterra SE 4X4 Auto(Silver Ice)

If your X is still under waranty, the dealer should fix it. But we know what a bother that could be.
From experience with other vehicles, noise from the heat shield is caused by a broken weld(s). I don't remember exactly what that shield looks like. But in general, a hose or muffler clamp around the shield almost always solves the problem.
The other cause is a bracket or some other item has moved into close contact with the shield.
dave and Xtoy - no clamps yet

Dave,
Thanks for the response. It is the shield that protects the brake lines from the exhaust heat. It is a flat piece of metal and it is securely attached at this time, but I think it vibrates b/c it is flimsy and wanted to know if anyone has figured out a way to quiet it a little.

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Chris
'00 Xterra SE 4X4 Auto(Silver Ice)

I had a rattle in that area, and it was just a shield on the tranny... I loosened the bolts and moved it over a bit. I was just rattling on the pan. If this is the problem you will not hear the rattle when you rev up the engine at a stop , but when you accelerate on the road.

Hope this helps..

I think I have the same problem, I hear a rattling while accelerating at higer speeds, like for a second between 39 and 40. Does this sound like the same thing. Cause it annoys the heck out of me.


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I had that problme a long time ago (over a year) and my dealer "couldn't find the culprit" so I just hunted around till I found the offending heat sheild and removed it. No problems since then.




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philosopher@angelfire.com

Philosopher's Xterra

Mid-Atlantic Xterra Club

Is the heat shield NOT needed? I was reading it protects the brake lines from the heat of the exhaust manifold. So should I just rip it off or use a hose clamp?

Anyone know off-hand the dimensions of the hose clamp used? Otherwise I will need to take a tape measure and wrap the pipe.

Thanks

wow, talk about bringing back the dead posts,..
anyway, usually you can get under there and BEND parts of the heat shield to stop the noise, otherwise , tear them off, look at them, if you see anything close enough to cause concern, then wrap them.