What is the purpose of the steel U clip with a screw that is on the inner door latch link rod. Is it just there to keep the anti rattle material from moving? Curious!
I think to keep the rod from flexing or moving around. It would still be free to slide inside the sleeve.
anti-theft perhaps? Isn’t that rod what most slim-jim tools snag to release the door latch?
My guess is 2 things anti rattle & stabilizer for rod when the latch is used to release latch.
No need for a slim jim when a coat hanger between the quarter window seal and the door window pops the door knob better than a key 
Interesting. I am glad I still have them.
Or tool to pop the wing vent latch. Then reach arm through to pop lock. Unless your arm is to fat!