On my 1997 Flareside there used to be a large, flat panel between the frame rails under the bed (sorry, no pics). I say "used to be" because it completely rusted away and I tore out the remainder with my bare hands. My question is, does anyone know what this panel is for? Stiffening? Splash protection? Is this an available replacement part or should I just not worry about it?

 

2wd or 4wd"

 

Sorry - 2WD.

 

Above the exhaust on the passenger side of the drive shaft?

 

No, it was further back. Has been a few years, but I am guessing it was a few feet square and above the differential. Best I can figure, it probably protected some of that stuff under the bed from road spray. OR maybe my brain is making this up.

 

 

I think they all have them, I've ripped a couple of them out, just took out the one behind the cab passenger side. Yep , tore it out by hand as the OP did last February. They disintegrate down to nothing. Heat shields.