Intermediate Steering Shaft Plastic Pins?

[Rat72]

I pulled out a 3" body lift on my 72. In the process, I had to remove a bolt that the last owner put in the intermediate shaft. I understand that the stock configuration had plastic buttons that held the slip joint in a certain position and would tear off so the unit could collapse in case of a crash. What I'm interested in is how to determine where the stock position is? And I understand why you GM wanted the plastic tabs to break but I don't see what their purpose is? Can I just do without any locking mechanism? If not, does anyone have suggestions on what to use to replace the plastic tabs?

Thanks,
Whit