What is this?

Driver's side. Looks like it comes off the oil pan, so it's down low.

 

Front differential breather

 

Diff breather

 

Flux capacitor. Looks like it's kaput.

What does it do when it gets up to 88 mph?

 

Dang you guys are fast. Should probably look into taking up a hobby or something...

Thanks!

 

So what happens when it goes kaput? How crucial is it to have a non-kaput one?

 

The air in the differential expands and contracts when it gets hot/cold. The breather allows it to stay at atmospheric pressure. If the breather is completely plugged, the diff will become pressurized when it gets hot, and will eventually blow out a seal around the pinion or possibly around a CV.

 

Not that big of a deal unless you do a lot of stream crossing and the water is deeper than that part.

Many will replace the entire line with a rubber hose and have it anchored higher in the engine compartment.

There are threads here on how to do this and parts needed.

Same goes for the rear differential breather.

The only real problem is that the differentials heat and cool, thus the fluid expands. This breather is to give the fluid a place to displace the air in the differential. If the breather plugs, the potential to push gear lube out the bearing seals is possible.

 

Oh fun. Thanks. Considering it's like 12 bucks for a replacement I should probably get that done then...

I don't do any stream crossing, or any off-roading, although in the midwest we're subject to the occasional flash flood now and then.

 

Have to get a Mr. Fusion.

 

GREAT SCOT!

 

This is heavy!