Board rack clamps

So i got a tower and the clamps around the board rack have rubber spacers, So the ? is if the clamp fits tight without the rubber can i just leave it out or is that not a good idea? The rubber is already kinda lookin like poo and is all pinch up under the clamp. Lets see how all of you guys have yours thanks for the help

Sounds like they used a low density rubber if they are getting tore up. The rubber is there to help "grip" the tube..... and... keep from scratching the tower if for some reason it does move. I have seen people not use the rubber before.... it will work..... but might damage the tower down the road. Your call man.