Starter splash shield
These are truly 'splash' shields, they are designed to do just that. You don't need them to drive the car. Should be no difference between 4-sp and auto. I can see where a 6cyl may not this one. There are three splash shields on my car. The one you are talking about is metal and has the "J" rubber and is to protect the starter. The other two are plastic, are pop-riveted on, are forward near the bumper brackets and are to protect the front of the engine. Only resto guys like me would be concerned about these pieces. Here is a picture of mine awaiting install.
These are truly 'splash' shields, they are designed to do just that. You don't need them to drive the car. Should be no difference between 4-sp and auto. I can see where a 6cyl may not this one. There are three splash shields on my car. The one you are talking about is metal and has the "J" rubber and is to protect the starter. The other two are plastic, are pop-riveted on, are forward near the bumper brackets and are to protect the front of the engine. Only resto guys like me would be concerned about these pieces. Here is a picture of mine awaiting install.