not necessary, they do offer some protection to the backside of the rotor, but i havent had mine in for several years and the rotors look like they should

 

I would replace them, I have removed them on some of my cars thinking I would have better brake cooling, I found the backing plate improved cooling and kept the rotors dryer when it rained.

Auto manufactures wouldn't have put them there if it wasn't necessary.

 

Good point on the dust shield being there by design. I guess I'll add this project to the list.

Thanks

 

I changed mine out when I was doing ujoints. Took the opportunity to add new hub bolts too. The flanges of the bolts were all chipped and cracked.

 

So I guess these are not specific to an axle, they fit Dana 44/30 etc...? It appears that way, just wanted to confirm.

 

So I guess these are not specific to an axle, they fit Dana 44/30 ...?

Front axle dust shields are side specific. The same parts fit all TJ models.