Rattle when shifting : Advice needed

["Michael Theuri" <mikesoft@europa1.conwaycorp.net>]

Whenever I take the engine to above 4K rpm there 
is an annoying rattle as I shift the gears usually first 
and second. This is in an '88 80Q. After troubleshooting
the problem. I found that there is a metal shield on the 
exhaust that was the problem. My mech advised me 
to have it welded and I did but it only reduced the 
rattle significantly. His advice was that it would be 
unwise to remove the shield but I can't recall what he
was referring to ....I think he said it protects too 
much heat from affecting the axle boot or something
to that extent. I would like to get rid of the annoying rattle
and was wondering if there are any ideas or suggestions
to this effect. The engine sound is superb when accelerating
and I did take it a few times to 5.9 - 6 K rpm only to have
it interrupted by the rattle when shifting. Thanks 

Mike Theuri
88 80Q