Guard plate

Splash shields around exhaust pipes and silencers protect these components from splashing water, road salt, mud and stone impacts. They help limit the build-up of dirt around mountings and vulnerable connections. Depending on their design, they may also provide thermal shielding, but a splash shield is not automatically a substitute for a separate heat shield. Damaged or missing protective plates can lead to accelerated corrosion, rattling noises and unwanted exposure of surrounding components.

Always identify splash shields using the vehicle's chassis number and the corresponding parts catalogue. Visual comparison or selection based solely on the model name is never sufficient. On MAN TGS and TGX or Mercedes Actros and Arocs, the exhaust position, emissions specification, wheelbase and chassis configuration may require different plate shapes and mounting points. Buses and vans also have specification-dependent differences; a protective plate is not necessarily interchangeable between vehicle ranges.

Engine variants, such as MAN D26 or Mercedes OM 471, are relevant because the layout of exhaust pipes, silencers and exhaust aftertreatment systems may differ. However, the engine family alone does not determine which splash shield fits. Also check for any modifications to the bodywork or previously replaced silencer supports.

Distinguish between flat shields, profiled protective plates and assemblies with separate mounting brackets. Depending on the application, coated sheet steel, stainless steel or aluminium may be used. Material type, plate thickness, bending stiffness, corrosion protection, mounting pattern and clearance from hot components are key design parameters. Follow the vehicle specification for these details; there is no universal fit or mounting clearance. Splash shields are not pressure-bearing components, so a working pressure rating does not apply.

On vehicles used for ADR transport, special splash shields or protective shields around the exhaust system may be legally required. This requirement depends on the applicable ADR regulations, the vehicle category and the position of the exhaust system relative to components such as fuel tanks and the load. Where protective shielding is required, the specified version must be fitted; a standard splash shield does not automatically provide the required protection against heat and fire hazards. Check the ADR specification and the required plates, fasteners and mounting clearances using the chassis number and the vehicle manufacturer's documentation.

Common problems include corrosion around bolt holes, fatigue cracks at folded edges, elongated mounting holes and deformation caused by collisions or stone impacts. A metallic rattle at a particular engine speed often indicates loose fasteners or contact with the exhaust silencer. Mud accumulating between the plate and its support traps moisture and can accelerate corrosion.

1. Allow the exhaust system to cool completely and secure the vehicle against movement. Remove mud and salt deposits so that edges, supports and mounting points are visible.
2. Use a work light and inspection mirror to check for cracks, rust perforation and contact marks worn down to bare metal. Black soot marks require a separate check for exhaust leaks; the splash shield does not seal against exhaust gases.
3. Use a vernier calliper to check mounting holes and the remaining plate thickness where accessible. Compare the dimensions with the technical documentation. Also assess threaded connections, spacer sleeves and mounting brackets.
4. Measure the clearance from the silencer, exhaust pipes and surrounding lines using a suitable ruler or feeler gauge. Check the specified clearance and allow for thermal expansion and movement of the exhaust mountings.
5. After fitting, check under safe conditions that the rattling has stopped. Do not touch rotating or hot components.

Replace plates that have rusted through or have torn mounting points. Fitting new bolts alone will not fix an elongated mounting hole or a cracked support. Repair defective silencer mountings and deformed brackets first; otherwise, the damage will recur.

Fit the correct spacer sleeves and specified fasteners. Tighten connections with a torque wrench in accordance with the vehicle specification and avoid introducing stress through misaligned mounting points. Do not drill extra holes to make an incorrect plate fit. Keep the designated drainage and ventilation openings clear and check again for contact marks after the functional test. Braem can provide technical support with identifying parts by chassis number.