[jakeru]

I had suspected the split plastic socket bushing insert was normal - necessary to accommodate expansion as the very tight-fitting socket was pushed over the ball during installation - but I'd say your documentation of it on a brand new part is confirmation. Interesting that the backs of the bushings aren't the same. Cables look good.

Edit: here's a photo I have of one of mine. Not sure why some bushings would be split while others aren't, but evidently it's how they are!