Inner Tie Rod Replacement

replaced inner tie rod on dodge. In removing one of the tie rods I broke a small plastic piece that I think was a lock washer of some sort. I replaced inner tie rods on another vehicle I owned and this particular part was made of metal. Actually, I really don't know what this part is. Would anyone know what this might be? If so, how important is it that I find a new replacement for it? This part was on the very end of the tie rod where it screws into, well, whatever it screws into.