Those three plugs and what the heck is that hose?

[paddy1998]

After giving my "new to me" 92 4wd a good once over I decided the shifter bushings needed replacement. And since I was going to be in there anyway this would be a good time to check the three rubber plugs at the top of the transmission.

Because am neither 18 years old anymore, nor a contortionist I removed the seats (which was shockingly easy) and the carpet (also shockingly easy) to make the job a little more comfortable.

Everything went swimmingly and my shifter now has the firmness it should, but I have two questions.

First, as you can see in the picture the three plugs are dry and were clearly sealed at some point in the past. Is that a permanent fix or will that require attention again some time in the future?

Second, what the heck is that hose I'm pointing at in the picture? The end is plugged and for the life of me I can't imagine what it might be.

And thanks to everyone generally who post on this forum. I've learned a ton here in the two weeks since I bought this Ranger.

 

[Curious Hound]

The 3 plugs are where the shift rails are installed or removed during rebuilds. If dry, it's good. They are sometimes a leak minor issue.

The hose is the vent hose. The little plug doesn't seal. It just keeps dirt out. But prevents pressure buildup when things get warm. Your differentials, transmission and transfer case should all have vent hoses like that.

 

[gearfather]

replace the 3 rubber plugs with dorman number 555-108 and save yourself some future headaches...