Thanks for the explanation Clyde. I'll take a look at the real thing soon.
I also saw this thread started by Chuck in the Suspension, Steering, and Brake Tech forum: viewtopic.php?f=10&t=30326
I missed it when it was originally posted.
Do you have a picture of your setup, Dave?
I haven't messed with these ever.
Obviously, you guys have been there before. Thanks for sharing.
Page 3-2 Figure 1 of the 1974 Vega Service and Overhaul Manual refers to these 'washers/ferrules?' as "CAPS".
Here is the ebay picture (thanks Dave!):