Are the Tail Plastic Collars necessary?

[SampsonNation]

Okay, so I replaced my fender eliminator. In the process, I took out the original OEM plastic collars that go in the bottom of the tail. They were all squished and kind of broken.

I wasn't exactly sure what their purpose is. I thought maybe they prevented water, etc. from coming through the holes into the tail. Does anyone know? Do I really need them?

 

[Bert-Aus]

I have always assumed that they act to keep the holes lined up nicely -as that is what a collar is for

 

[SampsonNation]

I'm not sure. Can anyone confirm?

 

[LS6TT]

I removed them when I went fe, no issues.

 

[SampsonNation]

I left in the 4 deformed ones when I put my new FE on. They kind of act like washers in a way. Hah!