Will it hurt anything to run with the backing plates removed?? What is their purpose? I think I have one contacting the rim or the rotor when I go around corners, but only one way. Any help is appreciated.
Thanks
Aus

 

Are you talking about the splash guards? You can run without those. It will just make it easier for your rotors to get wet when you drive through puddles.

 

I believe the ABS sensors are mounted to the splash guards, so if you don't have an RS, you'll actually have to trim the splash guard, rather than remove it.

 

I don't have a picture, but I trimmed the guards a long time ago. Basically, I cut out as much of the plate as possible while still leaving it rigid with protection and a mount for the ABS wire. It's easy to do with a Dremel tool. I figured that the key thing is to open up the guard as much as possible near the center of the rotor to allow as much air as possible to get into the cooling vanes. I've never had a significant problem with the brakes overheating on the track with the plates trimmed and the factory air guides.

 

since the splash shield is fixed to the back of the hub it can not rub on the rotor or wheel. you need to look for another reason for the noise or chaffing you are getting.

removed my shields long ago

 

I took mine off and made Brake cooling ducts to blow on the rear of the rotor. works great
In the search box just type in... Nifty brake cooling ducts