Why the Hunks of Steel on Each Side?

What Purpose do they Serve?
Is it to make it hard for us to run exhaust?
Are they really necessary or can they be cut?
Drivers side is tight enough with the Starter, Z-Bar and Exhaust
Pass Side has Oil Filter right there and Exhaust has to run between the two...
Can I just cut them off???
What say you Brethren?