I bet it's mostly aimed at the 23 model more then the 4x5s.
I sort of found something on the innernet (so it must be true right? ) that the extension is used for some lenses that have a large rear element. So I'm guessing, that some o fthe bigger lenses with 39mm thread, have that feature. I think you are right though, on the 23c, the focus rail stops short.
So let say that I won this on the auction site cheap, I put my 135mm on it, and use it for 4x5 negs, perfectly okay right? I just need to raise the enlarger 5/8" inch more I guess.