Thank you for the reply. W/o taking precise measurements, I believe that 1) the aftermarket joint is ever-so-slightly longer than stock, from face-to-face at the caps, or 2) the aftermarket clips are thicker than stock. I have a feeling that #2 is more correct, I envision the manufacturer built the joint to stock specs then just threw standard clips into the package. This, along w/ rust in the clip groove, is what I think did not allow the clip to seat fully. When replacing I filed down the clips, which does not sit well w/ me. Now I have better-seated clips that are weaker. Machining out the grooves seems like a good option.
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