Floor Insulator Above tailpipe smoking

[RPD1103]

Just returned from a trip and noticed my tailpipe and muffler had moved up (closer to the frame). Pulling in the driveway, there is smoke coming from the insulator which has fallen onto the hot tailpipe. Once it cooled, the insulation came off in my hand, it was completely destroyed on one end. Anyone else experience this issue? Is it necessary to replace this part? The rig is a 2005 so time and heavy use have taken their toll. Thanks.

 

[Inv4drZm]

You probably have a exhaust hanger that rusted through or broke that pivoted the tailpipe up towards the truck. You would need to fix that before replacing the shielding.