Saw something hanging from the rear wheel and it turns out it's some sort of shield that covers the inside of the disc brake rotor. The shield is mostly gone from corrosion. What purpose does this serve? Do I need to do anything, such as replace that piece? Thanks

 

Keeps the trash out of the brakes. Just replaced mine, only $37.00 NAPA (I figure they might have $3.00 invested in the materials and stamping. Then you have to remove the clips from the rearend to get the axles out. Fun!!!

 

So removing the rotor is not enough? Any help on this would be appreciated.

 

basically you have to rip into the rear end,remove a bolt,.shaft,and 2 clips. Just to get the axles out to replace the shield.

 

ive always just thrown them away. i dont even run them on my offroad trucks. they just keep dust and crap from hitting your brakes.

 

I think one of mine rusted away and fell off some time ago. I haven't worried about it. Dirt and crap can still get in there even with it.

 

Sand guards. Probably not an issue so much with hydraulic brakes, but they're a real PiTA with air brake vehicles.... they're bad for keeping heat trapped in and making it more difficult for the brakes to cool down. You don't need it, and I sure as hell wouldn't go through the hassle described above for the sake of keeping it.

 

Thanks to all who posted. If it is not a necessity, it is a low priority.

 

if you ever have to do rear wheel bearings replace them then.