Flexplate spacer/ retaining ring

When is this part required ? I have a 502 scat stroker and would like to know if the spacer needs to be used.
My flexplate is a new Pioneer brand .

I was always told if you have one use it and if you don't don't worry about it.That ring acts like a washer .It allows the bolts to apply clamping force all the way around the perimeter of the bolt circle .And I am not a fan of pioneer flex plates either .I feel the pioneer flex plate is really good for a stock or mildly modified engine .Isnt yours a stroker build ? My 427 had a pioneer flex plate and it cracked all the way around under the flex plate ring .Either way you should be ok with or with out the ring.Doug

Only reason I'm replacing the original Ford one is my cheap Chinese starter ate the ring gear.
The Pioneer looks sturdier that the original anyway, it's a solid piece without the triangular holes
Like stock Ford one.