Just wanted to share my idea for a heat shield. I have two slides that cover the front and back(removable). I also have the top half of the sides covered as well(not removeable) When I brewed last week, I only had the front shield on. I kept most of the heat away. The high temp engine paint(2,000 F) help up great. The only part that rubbed off was where I turned my mash tun a few times. The heat did not have any negative effects.
