Risks of removing dust shields??
 

What are the risks / downsides to removing the dust shields from your car?

I have 76 Carrera 3.0 and looking at improvig the braking for several DE / track days a year.

I thought the first steps would be to bleed brakes, replace brake lines, look at 993 scoops and removing the dust shields.

I drive about 6,000 miles P/A.

What are the risks / downsides to removing the dust sheilds - on the basis of my car usage - is it worth doing.

* you need to expain in plain english / clarify in detail as this is all new to me please..........

thanks in advance.


Kiwi 911

I've removed the shields and installed plates for a brake cooling kit for occasional track days. I think they've been on for 2 or 3 years without any issues.

Kiwi911,

I removed my dust shields in 1968. No problems since.


The downsides occur if you drive in snow / slushy freezing conditions on the highway where you seldom use the brakes.
Snow/ice can accumulate in/on the brakes.

Another downside is if you regularly drive unpaved/gravel roads.
There is increased possibility that a stone can lodge in your brakes.
(Even with the dust shields, this is not uncommon if you spin-off into a gravel pit at a DE :eek: )


Yes, removing the dust shields increases air flow to the brakes and keeps them noticeably cooler at DE events. :cool:
Ducting fresh air to the brakes is of significant benefit.
I question the effectiveness and effect of a restrictor plate between the front brake rotor and hub – I don’t add the un-sprung weight.

Some ‘big iron’ (5-liter racers) add water vapor cooling (like the ‘Rubbermaid Solution’) to the airstream to their brakes.
This is (fortunately) unnecessary with a 911 although probably with a tracked Turbo Cayenne or Panamera it would save a set of brakes. :rolleyes:

Best,
Grady

+1

When I tracked my '76 C3 I found the brakes to be marginal, cool them in every way possible including removal of the dust shields and addition of A arm scoops is good

There are much better pads and fluid available now then back then too, This is one case where SRF is worth it

Hi Bill,

What pads would you run for 80% road / 20% track use.

I wish to avoid squeeling etc. if possible.

Thanks in advance.

Apologies, but can you show me a picture of the restrictor plate you mention - I don't understand what you are saying here (thanks for you patience)

Ferodo 2500's. No squeal. No dust. Inexpensive; Pagids add little for twice the price. Fine for street and track with decent fluid and cooling.

+1 on Ferodo 2500's. However mine squeak when warmed up!

Have you tried a bit of anti-seize on the back? Have used maybe 15 sets, have never heard a squeak

Where do you put the anti-seize? Between the piston and pad?

Yes, on the back of the pad. Smear on a very little. Some believe filing the pad lightly to bevel the edges maybe 1/16" helps too; I'm less sure.