Has anyone removed the heat sheild from the y-pipe?

I have been having a definite buzzing/rattle from the exhaust and I am pretty sure I have narrowed it down to this section of the exhaust as this and the mid pipe are the only stock exhaust parts on the car.

I have ordered a Megan Racing y-pipe to replace but I think the outlet is 3" and the mid pipe is 2.5" so I am expecting issues there unless anyone can confirm otherwise.

It would be nice to just get rid of the heat shield and send the y-pipe back to be honest.

I have to get rid of this rattle it is killing the enjoyment of the HFC's and Axleback.