The small piece of metal in the middle should be rubber. This is the part that attaches to the strut to prevent the brake hose from rubbing against the tire. It's the same dimensions as the OEM rubber, but because the metal doesn't flex, it won't snag on the post. Forcing it can damage the hose and cause the clamp on the post to open. Once the clip is open it will not hold the tube in place and the tube will rub against the tire. Very dangerous and not worth the extra installation effort.
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