If you don't have the right spacer and end up with excessive play against that snap ring, you might break the snap ring. There also might be gradual wear over time that would break the snap ring. As the car bounces up and down, the axle has to expand and contract in length. It normally does this with the CV joints, but in your case it might do this a little against the snap ring.

Ideally, you would get a spacer that is a size or two smaller in thickness.

If you are really lucky, you could try the spacer from the other axle side. You'd still have that side to deal with to end up with two proper spacers.

For a supply of spacers, I guess you'll either have to go with used parts or the dealer. The dealer will be able to tell you what sizes are available and you'd have the option to return and try another size.

Sorry you are in this situation. I replaced the axles on my 1982 300D with new GKN Lobro units and the original spacers worked just fine. It normally is a very tight operation to get the clip back on.

Ken300D

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1982 300D at 351K miles
1984 300SD at 217K miles
1987 300D at 370K miles