[Vwdiesel] CV joint/axle question

[Mike & Coreen Smith]

What the large metal/rubber band/donut on the right hand side axle for?  Is
it supposed to be free floating?
Maybe it's scraping on something....or supposed to be attached somewhere??
I misplaced my Bentley manual and am looking for it.........in the meantime,
I ask the masses.

Thanks!

Mike

Mike, Coreen & Corey Smith
699 Rte 616 Keswick Ridge
NB
Canada
E6L 1T1