Will a dealer replace the plastic chrome cap if it is starting to show some surface rust? Here's some pics but it's hard to see from them. The first one is in the corner of the spoke and center piece and second I on the outside.
And can you remove the transmission pan thing? I've almost ripped it off once. Does it do anything?

 

Not trying to be a d*ck but that is not rust, rust is from steel not plastic. It is most likely surface. Have you tried to detail it?

By transmission plan "thing", I assume you are talking about the cross member. Yes this is crucial as this is what supports the tranny and transfer case.

 

Yeah I tried a few things and nothing took it off.
And no not the cross member. The pan that is under it. It's not a skid plate..
The pan is held on by 4 wing nuts. It's not holding anything important

 

Some plastic-steel wool (00) will take that plastic rust right off.

If by chance, it doesn't, try some steel-plastic wool.

 

Thanks smart ***

 

Take it to the dealer. Let them make the call. It may be the plating coming off. If the dealer is on Digital Imaging, they'll take pictures and Ford will say yes or no. As far as the shield, if you mean the fiber-like panel, leave it on, It helps with mileage and cuts down noises. Also keeps dry grasses off of the hot parts under the engine.

 

Thanks! And oh ok.

 

My bumpers started rusting after 8 months, I Went to the dealership and showed them and they ordered replacements right away on warranty.

 

nice, suits the question perfectly

 

Don't mention it, *****.