[dscott]

Jack, I may be all wet here but I think the backing plates were more for keeping the dirt and grease from getting on the brake pads from the ball joints, etc. I don't think they would deflect enough water to make a difference. I don't know of any aftermarket plates that will work with the 11" fronts. I know the design of the disc brake system was to eliminate part of the problem with brakes getting wet and not working such as in a drum system. I'm sure if enough water gets to any brake it will fade.
Don