Front Axle Question

[jetblack02]

Hey all!

I have the 2002 Ranger XLT 4x4 Off Road, and while changing the oil last night, I discovered a broken vacuum line hanging by the front axle. After seeing at one end it was capped off, I looked for the source and found a small fitting on the top of the differential, with a bit of hose hanging off of it. My question is, is this important? What might be not working if it is disconnected?

Thanks,
Steven.

 

[naford]

You sure it's not the breather?

 

[killj0y]

That would be my guess. Breather for the diff

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[jetblack02]

That makes sense. So its not affecting the function of the diff if its broken off?

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

That makes sense. So its not affecting the function of the diff if its broken off?

It needs to be open or you are going to start pushing oil out the axle seals. But it can't be wide open or you are going to get water and trash in your differential which will ruin it.

 

[enjr44]

Vent line, fix it.

 

[jetblack02]

Got it, thanks a bunch!

 

[jetblack02]

So, not knowing how long this has been this way, should I pull the cover and check it? I know it was city driven, but would it still be a good idea?

 

[enjr44]

If it were mine, I would fix the line and change the fluid. Probably nothing wrong with it. I change the diff fluids every 5 or 6 years (100K) just because.