Caliper brackets necessary?

I have a 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix and I also have some new chrome wheels that I want to put on it here's my problem...the wheels fit fine on the rears, but the fronts scrape and catch on the brackets on the brake calipers...my question is 'how necessary is it to have those brackets...cuz my dad and I used a power sander on the LF bracket but couldnt shave it down enough for em to fit:banghead: ...maybe they arent needed after all...cuz the brakes and wheels have been fine even without that extra thickness...hopefully they arent NEEDED...any input would be much appreciated thanx

3.8SuperPacer
1998 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP
40th Annual Official Pace Car
#736/1500

If you are referring to the caliper mounting bracket, of course they are needed.

It sounds like your custom wheels do not have enough offset. The remedy is either getting wheels with the proper offset or using a wheel spacer kit which is really not recommended.

I agree with Bob. The bracket mounts to the spindle and the caliper floats in the bracket. There is no way to attach the caliper to the car without the bracket, so you cannot eliminate it.