protection plate

[Schniddy]

are the protection plates really necessary? What would be the disadvantage in removing them? Mine are all rusty and I'm debating buying new ones for when I replace my wheel bearing or just leave take them out all together

[Schniddy]

anyone?

[echothreezero]

I presume you mean the plate behind the brake disc?

Aids cooling. Not necessary, but you'll want it if your brakes get a regular good workout.

[PiercedE30]

They don't aid in "cooling" since they are blocking off the back of the rotor. If you add brake ducting then they aid in cooling. No reason to keep 'em if they are rusting off on you.

[StereoInstaller1]

I would think they aid in rock/dirt defense.

[AndrewBird]

^^^What he said.