LA Engine Intake Manifold (273)

I have a 273 intake manifold that the heat shield has been removed/hacked up (can you believe it!). The rivets are still there but the shield was cut away (roughly) and I want to replace it. I have looked around and actually have a question in to Tony up at Tony's MOPAR Parts to see if a NOS is available...

Here is my question to my FABO friends and experts: Is the shield really necessary if I am running an aftermarket (electric choke) 4bbl carb? and does anybody out here know if the part is available or what the MOPAR part number was (I saw a 318 2bbl one on eBay but the guy says it won't fit).

So any info would be great!