Gauge Wheel Backing Plate

How to check for wear

Check the rubber lip on the disc side first. New rubber sits square against the disc; as it wears the gap opens and lets mud and residue in, which only speeds up the wear. Close that gap with shims as the lip goes down, but always run at least one shim. With none, the bearing housing contacts the axle arm directly and damages both. Down to one shim and still gapping means the lip has gone and it's time for new rubber. Feel the compound for brittle patches or soft, squishy spots, look for splits letting water in, then spin the wheel and check for side-to-side wobble or a dry rumble that points to a worn bearing.

Full gauge wheel wear guide →