Annoying slap/click on E string...pickup cover problem?

My T40 has developed a kind of pop when I'm really goin' on the E string. Since I noticed that the leatherish cover on the front coil of the neck PU is worn away, I'm wondering if the string is hitting the pickup or if that leather shield helps with that in some way. Is there something I could do to that shield to fix or replace it possibly?

As far as fixing it, don't know. If it's strictly cosmetic and doesn't hinder the sound, I'd leave it alone.

Sounds like you have an aggressive attack. I'd lower the pickup....should take care of the problem.

Thanks Scottpro, I'll fiddle around with the pickup a bit.

yeah mine was doing that the other day, as scottpro said lower the pickups or try raising the strings at the bridge a little