rear axle filter retainer

[caribougone]

Took the cover off the rear axle to change the oil and there were loose bits in there! Bit worrying... Looks like the remains of the retainer that holds the filter pad in place. #5 in the diagram. Is it really necessary? The pad seems to sit somewhat nicely in place without it and has likely stood that way for some time.

[droopsnoot]

I could picture things getting messy if it gets caught up in the gears, though with the age of most of our axles it might just quieten things down a little. I haven't seen this in mine (well, I haven't looked) but could you bend up a replacement from something like welding rod or even a wire coat hanger?

[GTpete]

Personally I have not seen this fitted in the axles I have serviced....I would say its not required...anyone else?

[caribougone]

Thanks droopsnoot and GTPete. Without a decent example it'd take a while to get that peculiar shape right. I'm also not sure how tricky it would be getting it in there with the crown wheel etc in place. I'm going to leave it out and hope for the best for now.