Just discovered my rear diff breather has been plugged for the last ~4 years.

[nobb]

As per the title. I did a rear diff breather extension about 4 years ago (40,000 kms) and made the mistake of using RTV to improve the seal to the hose. I was just servicing the breather recently and to my horror, the RTV had actually plugged up the breather completely!

The rear bearing and seal was done 2 years ago. Just last week I re-did the drum brakes and it was bone dry back there. Do you guys forsee any issues with having driven so long with a plugged breather? Everything seems fine to me and there's no leaks.

 

[jgue467]

Well the two years is a Good sign of it being OK.

The longer tube probably compensated some for the end being plugged, had more volume to expand the air internally. There are small filters (1/4" tube) designed more for carb breathers yet could help in this situation to have clean air as it contracts after being heated up.

Luck and enjoy the runner. :cowboy:

https://www.amazon.com/Uni-Filter-U...+filter&qid=1554929559&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr1

 

[Wedgy]

I guess it's hit or miss, maybe you have really good axle seals. Mine was plugged when I got it but it had blown the real axle seals, destroyed the axle bearings, rear brakes, and finally the pinion bearing as there was no oil in the read end. Maybe you have a little bit of an air leak to relieve the pressure, glad you got it cleared !

 

[plcfcng]

No if it did not cause your seals to leak your fine but read my posting on breather vent.

 

[3bears]

pull your abs sensors and inspect, maybe they just have not blown by the bearing yet.