I changed my front pads & rotors on my 2000 supercab F150 4X4 last night. Everything went pretty smooth, even pounding the rotors off didn't take too long at all. Anyway, I noticed that the thin half circular tin shield (Maybe a dust shield?) behind the brake assembly was completely rusted through & was rubbing against the back of the rotor on the passenger side. 2 of the bolts that held it on were rusted off & it was dangling there by one bolt. I removed it completely but I am not 100% sure what it's purpose is and if it will be OK without it on there. Any suggestions on what this parts was & if it will matter now that I removed it?

Thanks,

Brian

 

Dust shield/Backing plate....correct.

It keeps dirt and mud away from the brakes as well as dirrecting air into the rotor and aids in cooling. They are in the orignial design all the way back to the 1st Bendix Disc brake system. They are not just cosmetic, but they are not as crucial as a functioning caliper either.

JMHO replace them....Good luck...