Soooooo, i don't drive my 914 in the rain. So do I really need it.

No. I removed mine as I figured it would help with airflow and cooling. I did use the car in the rain and once had the voltage regulator get filled up with mud. Washed it out and it worked fine. I did not know then about the relay board cover. 914-6's did not have them.

I have always removed the rain tray for better cooling, countless Baja bugs, 1600 cars etc. race in Baja in crazy conditions. Never been a problem for me.