I've been reading a lot of threads about backing plates and spacers for proper bearing preload when installing explorer brakes on a 9" housing. Some of you who have done this talk about using washers to take up the gap where the backing plate would normally go, then using the spacer on top of that when doing the install.

I've got the spacer rings on the way from Currie but have no backing plates (or dust shield as some call them) and therefore don't know how much of a gap I'm looking at having to fill. What is the thickness of the backing plate and/or washers you guys are using for this? I'm not too inclined to pay what Currie is asking for these tin metal plates.

Thanks.

.25" I used a old bearing, cut them up and made my own spacers.

So is this diy spacer you made instead of or in addition to the spacer rings Currie sells? From what Currie told me, I need to use their spacer rings in addition to the backing plates themselves.