E39 exhaust heat shield.

[Mr Dave]

As thread title, the heat shield over the back box on an e39 523, is it necessary or can I rip it out and not worry. Mine was hit by a badger and its rattling as its ripped it off the mounting bolts. Don't want to remove it if its necessary and I can put up with noise until its replaced or if its not needed Ill go trail it off now.