FD2: Asbestos, "1959 Fender Deluxe Tweed"

Yes, that white heat-shield is an abestos fabric. It would be highly advisable to have it legally remediated. There are several Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) that address asbestos and asbestos disposal. If the fabric is in excellent shape such as shown in this video, you can leave it alone, provided that the back of the amp stays on the amp and prevents the fabric from being touched. DO NOT TOUCH or do any work on the fabric that may loosen microscopic fibers that can be inhaled. Inhaling microscopic fibers causes lung cancer. DO NOT ATTEMPT REMOVAL AND DO NOT THROW the fabric (and/or the back it is attached to) into the trash. This violates FEDERAL LAW and you endanger others to asbestos exposure. While the back of the amp is removed, place the back into a sealed plastic bag to prevent others from exposure. When it is time to place the back on the amp again, if there are noticeablewhite fibers loose in the sealed plastic bag, then leave the bag sealed and find an asbestos removal company.
I really can't stress enough how dangerous asbestos materials are. None of the CFR actually address specific circumstances such as this. As a general rule though, they do address asbestos exposure where the likelihood of contact is very high: schools, public buildings, workplaces, etc. But, I can't find where any of the CFR address consumer products that have a low probability of contact like this amp.
If someone has better information on this subject, please advise and I will update this posting.
Original Work, Copyright 2022 James D. Whiteside, II all rights reserved, For consideration only, no reproduction without prior permission.