Backing Plate Eliminator Kit & Split Month Part Number Changes

[Drake2]

The 08/80 FJ40 front axle that I picked up has disc backing plates that are totally rotted away. I was investigating replacement backing plates when I saw that SOR offers a "Backing Plate Eliminator Kit". Wondering if anyone is using this kit or something similar and what your thoughts are on running without a backing plate. I can't think of any obvious drawbacks.......

On a side note.....I see that if I wanted to buy replacement backing plates 08/80 seems to be a split month. How does one tell which side of the split is the right part number?

One part number
Fits 9/75-8/80 FJ40/FJ55

The other part number
Fits 8/80-8/87 FJ40/60

 

[tjhaga]

I think the first part number goes up to but not including 8/80, the second starts with 8/80 and goes up to but not including 8/87.

 

[macdaddy59]

Marks offroad has the backing plate eliminator for $19

 

[spotcruiser]

Just cut off everything but the center section of the existing backing plates and reinstall them.