Clutch cable felt ring

[WayneDW]

I was surprised to read on the BMW MOA site about this felt ring which is suppose to be at the end of the clutch cable.  I'm quite certain I didn't see such a thing when I replaced my cable last winter.
http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=7288
(see page two)

I'm thinking this might be of interest to more of you here.   Do you think this is really a necessary part?

part number 32 72 1 231 610

[Rick G]

I don't think it is strictly necessary but it sure would stop a lot of grit getting down the cable and a bit of oil would help also.
But I have never seen one but only replaced 1 cable.

[Snowy]

Still got mine fitted and swapped it over to a new cable. I can't see that its super critical but as said would help keep crud out from working its way down the sleeve.