Confused about ignition switch clip

Hello guys,

I have an odd problem here. While swapping out my MFS last night, I happened to look at my ignition switch and noticed something odd. There was a single metal clip or piece of wire that seemed to span from the metal body of the switch to the black wiring plug. Unfortunately, I couldn't resist the urge to mess with it, so I removed it to look at it. When I went to put it back, I apparently did it wrong, because what I got was orange sparks! The thing welded itself to the metal body of the switch. Well, I pulled it off and verified that the car still starts, so I don't think I damaged anything. But I can't figure out how this clip goes on or what it does.

Anyone know what this odd clip is for?

(Sorry no pictures yet - I can probably get one at lunchtime.)

You too?? I can't figure it out either.. So, I just left it off.

Actually, its suppose to provide some strain relief for the connector, but you can achieve the result with a zip tie, bailing wire, etc.

It's called a telefane wire.....

As the Ford service manager would say, "Your telefane wire is corroded, so we replaced the engine."

The previous post was brought to you via Mad Magazine circa 1974.....