Driveshaft seal spring on Cobra outdrive

[Keyboardman]

While installing a new gimbal bearing, I noticed that the circular spring that sits in a lip in the driveshaft seal popped off somehow. Looks impossible to put back on without trying to pull the half set gimbal bearing back out. How necessary is that spring? Will I be OK without it? I don't have a bearing puller so I'd have to buy one if I need to take it out. Thanks

 

[Keyboardman]

I'm assuming that this seal keeps water from passing into the flywheel/coupler should the bellows fail?

 

[Keyboardman]

Well, found out it be just fine without the garter spring on the seal