Rear Left CV Axle - ABS RING

[sramelyk]

Had a bearing fail while driving and also damaged the CV Axle. I have a new one and it has the ABS Ring (COG). I don't see this on the old Axle, but don't know if it was tore off when the bearing failed. Can I just knock it off, or am I missing something? I checked several different part stores and they all had the ring.

I have a 2001-02 Ford Explorer.. I say both years because I thought it was a 2001 but most of the parts I get, I have to say 2002 to get a match.

Thanks!

 

[Number4]

The production date may have been the later half of 2001, but that makes it the 2002 model.

Some models came with true 4wheel abs, others have the rear abs unit in the rear diff.
Parts stores don't want to carry two separate axles (one with ring, one without) nor do re manufacturers want to. So they put the ring on the axle regardless of wether or not the vehicle needs it. You could leave it on or knock it off. If you knock it off and end up needing to warranty the axle, it could be rejected.