a tire carcass in the roadway sufficiently damaged the plastic skid-plate/ splash pan under the eng. on my 04 XJ8 that I had it removed. Is it important enough that I should replace it? Thanks.

 

Let me expand a little on my query. Other than protection, does the skid-plate/splash-pan serve any other purpose such as aiding in eng. cooling, increasing gas milage, etc.

 

It modt likely aid in air flow like a splitter on a race car, but most likely at speeds on public highways (under 100mph) is just part of the cosmetics (styling) of the car. If it has cracks but is complete you can get repair materials at most auto parts stores (try an auto paint specialty store) . It comes as a two part glue most og it is poly urathane based and is quite strong once cured

 

If the skid plate got that damaged, just think what might have happened if it had not been there. That should answer your question.

 

What Lew said, could you imagine if that road debris got up into your belts. Also, I'm not familiar with your particular model, but if part of the splash shield lies between the bumper opening and the radiator it can and will have an effect on air-flow over the radiator and engine cooling.