XJ Cherokee "caliper support spring"?

[D60]

I stumbled upon a "caliper support spring" on RA for XJ's (and presumably TJ's too?).

I don't think I've ever seen these in the wild. A quick search turned up a single result on an XJ forum saying basically no one uses them and they do nothing (paraphrasing)

https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/infamous-front-caliper-spring-139510/

I also found some factory (or maybe Haynes) illustrations for the job and I don't make out ANY mention of these. Also a bit intrigued that this seemingly factory procedure calls the pads "shoes":
https://www.justanswer.com/jeep/30l...ort-cyl-brakes-caliper-right-front-wheel.html

ANYWAY, does anyone use these? Are they supposed to help the pads retract, or something else? I've been unable to find a working image of them installed.

 

[Kira]

"Anti-Rattle Spring" is what I believe they're called.
If a caliper assembly had them from new, I'd refresh them if necessary.

 

[vavavroom]

Many brake calipers have springs like that. Without the spring the brake will likely drag even when you are not applying the brake. The spring also holds the pad firmly in the correct position and prevents noise.

 

[GSCJR]

ANYWAY, does anyone use these?

Yes

Are they supposed to help the pads retract, or something else?

No, they are anti-rattle clips.

I've been unable to find a working image of them installed.

They are installed between the knuckle and pad ears to provide tension.

 

[Chris142]

Bought my 2002 brand new. It never had those.

 

[D60]

Yes

No, they are anti-rattle clips.

They are installed between the knuckle and pad ears to provide tension.

Are you saying yes because they're anti-rattle clips or do you specifically use them on these axles?

 

[GSCJR]

Are you saying yes because they're anti-rattle clips or do you specifically use them on these axles?

Both, unless someone has tossed them in the trash.