the motion of the ram is vertical, but the connecting rods motion is 'rocking' , prehaps 10 degrees either side of vertical when the press cycles.
I think that the missing 'spacer' should be like a shallow 'ball and socket' joint. The missing piece should be made of phosphor bronze. (we call this a pitman knuckle end bearing)
this ball and socket arrangement transfers all of the energy of the press to the work, (10 or 15 tons maybee?) - it should be a nicely bedded fit.
If it has worn out in the past the old owners may have just removed the piece which is not good.
If you make a striaghtforward spacer that has no clearance something will smash when you cycle the press.
john.
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