tape on drums

is this tape a rust preventative or left from the factory and should be removed?

 

Welcome to TW. Where on that drum is the tape you're referring to? I can't see any.

 

It’s a corrosion barrier. Keep it or remove it.

 

My local dealer doesn't replace the paper gasket, and I've always removed it with a razor blade and smeared a light coat of anti-seize.
Doubt it really matters.

 

It does if you live in the rust belt!

 

My 1st gen drums survived fine, the frame on the other hand well Toyota lost their ass on that

 

Stops the drums from welding themselves to the hub with rust. If it is gone, a light smear on anti-seize, being extremely careful not to contaminate the brakes, is a good idea

 

i took off one side as it ripped when taking off drum the other side was left on as it was perfect so i guess in a few years I'll see how much it helps

 

There are fellas who will tell you that you need an alignment now, as one well is .25mm more proud than the other. I’m not that guy.

Personally, having fought rusted drums before, I’d want a little anti-seize on the mating surface.