Old fashion "load spreader(s)"

You don't see these old fashion "load spreader(s)" utilise much nowadays as racquet technology has advance dramatically since the late 1970's.

"Old fashion" load-spreader at top of frame

"Old fashion" load-spreaders at bottom of frame

In the past, these load spreaders were essential to ensure the strings did not eat into the frame over time, when higher (at the time) tensions were utilised.

As per the pix(s), I am currently using them on my 2nd hand antique Yonex Carbonex 15 (with T-joint) from 1982. The specification on the racquet is maximum 18lbs but my racquet has been strung at 22lbs. Another friend with the same antique has his units strung at the same tension as well.

The load spreaders near the T-joint on 1-side (applied to both side for balancing) of the racquet conceal an area repaired using epoxy resin. This was because when I bought the racquet, a pair of grommets in that area had sunk halfway into the frame  (due to a crack between the pair of grommets). Superglue was then applied on top of the repair before it was repainted with a dash of black paint.

Balance impacted?

Everyone who wanted to try the antique from 1982 usually feedback the Carbonex 15 is a well balanced racquet!!!

Fragile?

Don't believe the chaps on the other side of the court agrees as I was using the racquet to smash them repeatly during a few games!

The load spreaders at the top of the frame were added as a precaution as this was a well known "cut thru" area for the T-joint Carbonex 15 - even when strung at low tensions.