Bearing spacer

[Burque73]

Is this spacer on the end of the hollow tube necessary? Both front and rear wheels have them and they seem to serve no purpose. I'm using new Nachi bearings sealed on both sides (inside and out). The old ones were open on the inside.

Thanks

20171014_104346.jpg

[Cipher]

Does it aid in alignment? Is it hurting anything by remaining?

[Burque73]

Does it aid in alignment? Is it hurting anything by remaining?

Just reassembled it and yes, an alignment aid as you said. I initially thought it had something to do with the open bearings.