Mystery Tube Clarification

[josiahsm02]

Stupid question, but I can't figure out what this tube is for.

I drive a 2001 Ranger XLT 2.3L RWD. I recently noticed this tube coming off of my rear axle and I can't figure out what it could be for

Here is a picture, I've circled the tube in red. I don't think it looks cut. Is it a breather tube? If it was important I figure I would've had some trouble by now, I'm mostly just curious what it could be for.

Thanks!

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

Yes, breather tube.

 

[SenorNoob]

Looks like someone has extended it in the past too.

 

[sgtsandman]

Breather tube for the axle. It normally is attached just under the bed.

 

[pjtoledo]

the way it is positioned now it's in the perfect place to get blasted with spray from the front wheel.
should be near/above the rear axle and pointed down. use plenty of slack for axle movement.

 

[josiahsm02]

Thanks y'all!

 

[pentode]

A word of advice- not a bad idea to take that tube off and make sure it's clear. I had a mud dauber or some other creature make a nest in mine and it blocked the tube completely. I nearly tore my rear end apart to change the pinion seal because I had a leak. Turns out it was building pressure when hot and pushing oil out the seal. Mine actually went "pshhhh" when I opened the fill plug.

 

[josiahsm02]

Good to know, thanks!