I've got the '04 DI Rodeo. That engine has a plastic cover over the top. I've been running without it for about 4k miles.

Why is it there? Is it for looks? Is it for air flow (cooling) control?

I really don't want to put it back on (except, it's a great place to put tools), but I will if there's a reason.

"Stubig" - '72 416.141 (U1100) Unimog
"Sassy" - '05 KLR650
"Brody" - '04 Rodeo (It's my wife's, really)
"Candy" - '02 TDI New Beetle (yes, a family of 4 fits inside)
"Twinkie" - '72 Revcon 250 (converting from Olds 455 to 6.5L Diesel)