Simple(ton) question re the standard T5.1 jack

[transparu]

I'm carrying a 6mm aluminium plate to put under the jack when (if) needed off road. I'm in the process of putting some pieces on the plate to minimise the chance of the jack sliding sideways or backwards.
Through the base of the jack, centrally but toward one end, there is a black nylon protrusion (about 10x25x4mm). (Far end in the attached photo.) On the upper side of the plate the nylon fitting clips onto the jack pivot shaft.
Can anyone tell me what that nylon part is for? That it protrudes suggests it may be to increase friction with the ground. This seems a bit pussy but I can't really think of what else it might be for.

I need to know so I know how to handle it when finishing the plate.

Ideas and comments welcome.

Thanks folks.

Dave

Oh, FWIW. I found out last year that when goats jump into a T5 they can cause $10.5K damage as they die.

[Rebuild]

Sorry, can't answer your question.

I only ever used the standard dog-leg jack once. Never again.
There was much creaking and groaning and it wasn't me!!
I wouldnt like to trust my life with a single point support like that.

[Lucas_R]

As above, my advice would be to throw that jack in the bin and buy something else. The jacks that VW supply are absolute rubbish - known commonly as the 'widowmaker'. A simple bottle jack is cheap, compact, much more reliable/sturdy and will probably still fit in the same area.

Just remember to buy a jack that is rated higher than the weight you intent to lift.

Something like this ToolPRO Hydraulic Bottle Jack 4000kg | Supercheap Auto

[Rebuild]

just had a look at mine. Mine looks different to your photo though.

On the foot of my jack is a small rubber protrusion about 15mmx10mmx4mm. As per you, doesnt seem to be any purpose other than to increase grip on whatever flat plate you put under it.
Maybe you could email the GM of VW and ask him about it
In extensive VW testing, they determined the optimum life-saving size was 15x10!!

I still wouldnt use the jack though

[transparu]

Thanks Gents,
Then the answer to my question is NO. It is a curious feature.
From 1989 I've used the VW-supplied, and somewhat unorthodox jacks in my T2, T3 and T5 and do appreciate their 'features'. With care though I have never had an issue with them and certainly don't rely on them only to keep a vehicle above my head - or any other part of my body. At home, it's usually a ramp or another jack and a wheel.
I haven't carried my hydraulic jack on trips, though with an issue with larger tyres might find one useful as an addition to the mass I tend to carry around.

Thanks again for your responses fellas.

Dave