e-clip questions

[whitetrash96]

I used to have an internal spring with the cap welded in but somewhere I blew it out and now I have no cap. The plan is to go with an external spring but my question is what can I use as replacement cap or do I need one? My other thought was to add a grease nipple and pump it full of grease so maybe I don't need a cap afterall? Is the boot really necessary as well if I go capless? Thanks in advance.

 

[whitetrash96]

I've decided to use my spare shaft which still has the dust cap installed and use the boot same as stock. I'm heading to the local pick your part any ideas on where I can find a spring with 1-1/2" inside diamater and about 4" long?

 

[4x4junkie]

I assume this is about the front axle slip yoke?

I lost the cap on my Ranger once. I cut a circle out of a piece of metal and just welded it into the back of the yoke (yes, you need it, otherwise crud will get into the axle splines causing them to wear and possibly having it seize up from rust & dirt)