I am doing the 5-lug conversion, DTSS bushings, and poly bushings. While I am in there, should I remove the dust shields or keep them?

It seems that Mazda put them on there for a reason, but I would get better cooling without them.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of removing or keeping them?

Thanks,
Jason

 

Surprisingly enough, and I could be wrong, but I think they are there to HELP the cooling by directing airflow properly. In addition they serve as splash shields to prevent water in rain from directly splashing the brake assembly (think mass uneven cooling effect - not good).

I know they suck, but I was tempted to remove them and was counseled not too a while back, and tho I don't remember the actual reason I believe these were some of them. I hate 'em too....

 

Keep 'em unless you're 100% full race track only.

It's not going to kill to have them gone on the street, but it serves next to no purpose to remove them, and actually causes more problems than it's worth...

Basically if you're driving in the rain with the shields off on the highway, you're going to have some *wet* brake rotors if you don't step on the brakes every few miles or so (maybe even less)... I had them off on my '90 TurboII and during heavy rain when I got off at exits I'd have to make sure I stepped on the brakes before I *had* to stop, otherwise I would be freaking out that they weren't biting.

 

agreed they are there for a reason, You would be better to keep them than remove them!

 

There Is no good reason to lose the Shields. They act as a barrier for all scenarios (as mentioned) and are barely visable when mounted. I glassbeaded mine and clearcoated them for no good reason awhile being In that area earlier on In.