Am I OK by RIPPING this off?

[MikeZirpola]

Hey i was changing my oil filter last night and ripped that plastic guard out of the way that was to the left of my wheel. It was flimsy and didnt look real important, would it be alright if i jut removed it instead of fixing it ?

 

[OH4CompG]

Every time you drive in wet weather your belt is going to get wet and squeel. It's there to prevent the tire from splashing the belt and crank pulley.

 

[MikeZirpola]

i hear ya, especially since im from buffalo, probably would keep the salt out too