Gear shift shaft question (again)

[Trailrider]

I have all the parts to replace my bent shift shaft. Where does the white plastic donut called the selector axis go? I didn't see one when I removed the bent shaft. Any help greatly appreciated, also any tips on putting the seal back in the right way.
Thanks,
Jim

[gasgasman]

It goes behind the shaft seal on the shifter side-basically some sort of oil slinger to keep oil away from the seal.
That's my opinion from a few tear downs I've done in the past.

The slinger is still in your engine case.

[Trailrider]

Will the old one in the case cause any damage? Splitting the cases is not in the plan. I don't have anyone to do it anyway other than send it to GoFasters, and they just rebuilt it a few months ago.
Suggestions?
Jim

[gasgasman]

I would pull the seal out and try to insert the rod through the existing axis.
Unless, you can see the axis through the seal opening.

[Trailrider]

No sign of the selector axis, she's going back together as is. Just noticed that little piece of plastic I can't use cost me $75. If the gearbox screws up that's the way it goes, it's a 2001 anyway. Any other suggestions welcome other than splitting the cases.
Jim

[gasgasman]

You can try laying the bike on it's left side and using a coat hanger to fish around for the axis. You don't want that piece floating around in the transmission.