Oil filter element fence question

Can someone explain what the purpose of the oil filter element fence is? Both my KZ's take the same oil filter element,NAPA p/n 4941 (Wix) and the parts, except for the fences, are identical. The fence on my KZ550 sits under the filter element so I've always assumed it was a weir which the oil spilled over. However the fence on my KZ1000 is slightly different and sits on top of the filter element, dispelling my spill over theory

Not sure what part you are referring to when you mention a fence. Oil filter, o ring, washer, spring and the bolt are all I can think of with respect to the oil filter stuff...

It is the dish shaped metal plate which covers one end of the filter element. Referred to as fence in the manuals but called plate in the Kawasaki parts diagrams.

I know what you mean now... can't recall seeing one on my 900s or 1000s...

del