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I am changing out a cracked/leaking factory axle boot with a split type and when I removed the original, a small metal angle piece of metal fell out from the area where the axle casing mates to the stop ring. I previously replaced another boot and don't remember seeing this before. Can somebody please tell me what this piece might be for and the orientation of it? If I am identifying it correctly, it appears to be #21, Group 3-10-24 of the parts manual. It has a curved radius or arc on one edge and is about 2" long.

If is is needed/required, should I take apart the other side to make sure it is there?

Thanks,
Doug

Just adding in the photo so help may be faster.
Unfortunately I have nothing to offer at this point

it goes inside #17 to keep the rubber ring tight to the flat bottom portion of the axle tube.

I was told by Jim L. that it is not a necessary piece..that if you don't have one don't worry about it. I will try to find the post 'I remember now when i ordered the whole repair kit (710 1 32 260 9 number (3) in the drawing) that little angle wasn't included. I asked about it on here and as I remember Jim L said no problem