disc brake conversion

[survivorman_va]

I am doing a disc brake conversion on a dana 44 and wanted to know if I can get away with out using the dust sheilds. They are beat up and I don't think i really need them. I wondered if leaving them off would cause a problem since they are about a 1/16" thick and if I would need to shim that area.

THanks

 

[S_bolt19]

Nope, you don't need them. I have run without the dust shields for over 10 years and have never had a problem. All they are are something else to catch a rock on.

 

[TX '73]

I'm doing this conversion too, on a Dana 44. Are you talking about the backing plate? Same part? If you don't use the backing plate, do you have to shim out?

 

[riggermortis]

i have seen these dust shields / backing plates brand new on ebay for like $35.00 if you want to keep them. if you take them out wouldnt that give you some extra play on the end of the axle when you put the snap ring on? dont know if it matters or not just a thought.