is this part structual?

I'm talking about the engine spacer/inspection plate on my 89 4.0/5 speed?

Is it just a spacer or does it give strength to the tranny/engine connection?I ask this because when I did my tranny swap I forgot to put it on the engine before I bolted the tranny up,so I ended up cutting strips off the side of it so I could slide it up in between the engine and trans....sounds redneck,I know...

t.i.a

Its a spacer for proper depth of the input shaft and the clutch, its not structural.

Of course it will somehow fall out and all hell will break loose.

nah....it's held in place by the dowels and bolts.....I just cut slits on the side of it for clearance.