Crank plastic part. Does it do anything?

plugp7

Just taken apart FC M-442crank and wondering if this black plastic do dah between inner ring and crank arm actually does anything?

nicklouse

Helps stop the chain getting jammed. And stops it working with some cranksets.

oodboo

I think it stops the chain from dropping into and getting caught in the chainset. I had a chain drop down there and had to remove the chainset to get it out. This was after I removed that piece. Fortunately I had just left the car park and it was a short push back to the bike shop at Whinlatter.

plugp7

Thanks lads.
Don't think I'll notice the weight reduction if I leave it off so it's going back.