Funny. i got a replacement for $20 off "my" parts car at my wrecking yard.(no one else has a car like mine here!). Yeah, i think the snap ring must have came off. i'll put on the replacement then tear into mine to verify. thanks for the advice guys

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Lotus 7 replica-20valve 4AGE
06' 500R Ninja Naked/Café/Custom
86' 300 SDL (Donor)
98' Discovery 50th anniversary (Recipient of transplant)