You are probably referring to the firewall cover. Made of insulated cardboard. You could remove it but you'll experience heat and noise from the engine bay and road. ABS plastic or fiberglass replacements are available from vendors. Steer clear of the cheap rubber ones.


Bruce
Old Toy: Ol' Betsy stock 59 Apache SB Stepside (Gone but not Forgotten)
New Toy: 1962 Impala SS Coupe
The Driver: 1990 Toyota truck