Missing clip on starter

Hey this clip fell off of my starter when I replaced the contacts/plunger. The clip broke so I can't put it back on.



Starter works fine and I've been driving it for a week but I want to know:

1. what does it do?
2. what should I do - just tape up the hole on the starter or something else?

Thanks

 

It's a vent, should be fine without it but it really just shields water and debris from getting in.

 

Thanks!

Good to know it's a vent hole - but probably means I can't just tape it up like I had hoped.

I spend a decent amount of time driving on forest roads in dirt mud and snow, along with an occasional deep puddle crossing now and again, and I figure some debris or water would kick up into that hole at some point, possibly grinding/shorting inside. Anyone have ideas for replacing/fixing?

I'm sure I could JB weld it on or something, and I might be able to fix that broken clip itself though it may break off again soon. Preliminary searching online hasn't shown any part number or availability. Any ideas?

thanks guys

 

I would go to a local auto supply store and see if they have any starts being sent out for a core rebuild and see if you can snag one off there. I'm sure they are replaced when they rebuild the starters.

 

oh good idea, thanks