Where's the piece? Hope it's not inside. You could consider just installing the thing. The half-shaft presses against it so I doubt it would go anywhere. I would check how much push there is at full lock each way. I've never checked that but there is quite a bit of push when straight. Obviously that's incorrect and I sure wouldn't blame you if you didn't. Just one of my screwy thoughts. :rotf:
I did find the end of the axle and the clip inside. It doesnt look like it did any damage and I cant find why it happened. I probably could install it as is but I really want to put a non broken one in to know that it is correct.