Need help with old TM - Minn Kota Turbo 35

[Crappieawlogist]

old TM Serial MK01626924 ... I think it is from '94? .... I'm using a diagram from NorthlandMarine.com the following link http://www.northlandmarine.com/image...%2035...98.pdf
Here's a snippet of the diagram...


Replacing Brush Kit. Got a couple questions:
1. I cannot get the armature replaced into the Brush Assembly with it binding...The part that is labeled in the diagram as #8 (Brush retainer,circled in red) is a cardboard tube. I assume it holds the brushes back into the slots...and when you push the armature into place, the cardboard sleeve is pushed back by the armature. So this sleeve keeps the brushes pushed back, so the armature can be inserted? But once the armature is in, it is simply out of the way and serves no other purpose. IS that correct? The kit I purchased did not come with this cardboard sleeve (part #8)... Any ideas on how to get the armature back in? I have the old cardboard sleevefrom the original..but it is dilapidated and not rigid enough to work.

2. Part Number 7 above (circled in Blue) ... a little BB sized steel ball. The diagram doesn't show where it goes but I think that it (along with the thrust disk) sit inside of the bearing at the very back of the brush holder...I gather that from the old one being replaced. Question is, there was no steel ball in the old one. Should there be? I don't think I dropped it?

I hope this makes sense....I sure would like to get this old thing working....old brushes were totally shot...it looks great....I think it'll be perfect for pond hopper....

All help appreciated.