i dont know if this belongs here but: i was recently off-roading in my 98 blazer and the plastic skid plate in front of the front axle popped off. is this is necessary piece? all it seems to do is keep the outside of the oil filter clean. the truck still works fine and even seems to have a little more power. is this because there is better circulation in the filter intake area or is the extra boost in power just in my head?

its not really a skid plate. it directs airflow from the radiator to the engine. without it you may overheat going down the highway.

so it is sort of important i should probably find a way to reattach it then

i would, just to be safe.

It also does a great job of keeping water/mud from your belt and fan. Both have a tendancy to sling it everywhere in the engine compartment.