This seems very odd to me

[CurrentObsession]

Dealing with my first drive removal, strip down and repaint.

1998 Alpha 1 Gen 2

​I can't figure out why there is a clip on the end of the bellows (see pic) I assume its to provide an electrical contact from the bell housing, through the wire in the bellows. It seems to me that this clip will prevent a good seal and be an obvious source of a leak.

What am I missing?

 

[muc]

It's there to bond the hose clamp and help keep it from corroding.
Doesn't seem to cause any leaks.
If your a trailer boater, you could leave it off if it worries you.

 

[alldodge]

Muc has your answer but the clip has yet to cause a leak (other sealing surfaces work very well) and is used to help keep electrical contact