its definitely above the level of the black plate, probably about 1/4". I think I might remove it its solid underneath and the "male" nub doesn't correspond to any "female" opening on the underside of the horn pad. I bought the retainer off of eBay because it seems its the only part not reproduced. Other than the "nub" it lines up with and fits perfectly with the horn switch underneath and the horn pad mounting plate above.