I've got two gear levers, one has a washer welded on near the bottom. Is this correct or has it been added at some point?
If this is correct, I assume it goes below the gaiter.
The cover plate did slip over the washer Mike.
I gave the washer a tap and it popped off! (not welded as thought) I think someone must have slipped it over the lever to support the knackered gaiter.