T5 CV Joint

[molibdimum]

Hi all

Below is a CV joint from a T5.

Can anyone tell me what the rubber ring is that fits around the housing and is it important?

As you can see this one is damaged.

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e41/molibdimum/MVC-004F.jpg

[Brian Considine]

is it important?

Yes, it keeps lubricant in & dirt out !

[carbon]

I take it that it's from a 5 speed T5 as it seems the 6 speed one's don't have that rubber. Its listed as a splash shield, so I take it that it's there to stop water and small stones damaging the wheel bearing. It looks like it may have already stopped a stone from damaging the wheel bearing

[molibdimum]

Thanks guys....... I thought so.