Im a Complete newb when it comes to differentials and axles but this line I'm holding was popped off the other day. I just slid it back on...

Can Someone shed light on this situation?

 

Just a breather tube. When the gear oil and air in the axle gets hot and expands, air needs a place to excape. When the gear oil and air cool it draws in air.

 

Can't think of the correct name right this second but it's a vent hose for your rear axle. If you've been in any water, especially up to your axle, then you should check your rear differential oil to see if water got in. If it has, then you should change your rear differential fluid. It's super easy to do. Try using a zip tie to keep the hose on if it keeps coming loose.

 

Have been in deep water a lot...will look into this. I saw the write up about changing the fluid and it looked super easy. Are there any tips or things to look out for that can really screw me over when doing this?

Thanks for your help guys

 

Main issues would be this;
1. Too much gear oil and you'll have a mess on your driveway
2. Too little will cause premature wear on gears, seals, etc.
3. Wrong gear oil can harm differential (I.e. limited slip requires a gear oil with limited slip additives)
4. Keep inside differential clean and free of debris (get a can of brake cleaner and spray it out real good)
5. Torque the cover in a star pattern to torque specs.

Pretty easy, just messy if your not used to it

 

Thanks man this is awesome help