Water in differential from hose down?

[4RNner]

So... I know that one should be wary of crossing through deep water off-road due to the possibility of water entering components, such as a differential.

With that said, how likely is it for water to enter components as stated above when someone uses a hose or power washer to rinse off salt from the undercarriage? Along the same lines, does an automatic car wash pose similar risks?

Just a random thought of mine. Thanks for any responses!

 

[KidVermicious]

Practically impossible. Unless your breather or fill plug is completely missing and you deliberately aim the stream at the open hole, I suppose. Then you could manage it.

Think about it, you get more spray in your undercarriage every time you drive in a rainstorm. None of that find its way into your drivetrain components.

 

[euser]

So... I know that one should be wary of crossing through deep water off-road due to the possibility of water entering components, such as a differential.

With that said, how likely is it for water to enter components as stated above when someone uses a hose or power washer to rinse off salt from the undercarriage? Along the same lines, does an automatic car wash pose similar risks?

Just a random thought of mine. Thanks for any responses!

Seems very, very, very unlikely. I've spent years driving through deep water and abusing vehicles and have never had water get into something like the differential either.

 

[4RNner]

Practically impossible. Unless your breather or fill plug is completely missing and you deliberately aim the stream at the open hole, I suppose. Then you could manage it.

Think about it, you get more spray in your undercarriage every time you drive in a rainstorm. None of that find its way into your drivetrain components.

Very good point, thank you!

Seems very, very, very unlikely. I've spent years driving through deep water and abusing vehicles and have never had water get into something like the differential either.

Thank you for your response!

 

[jwkilgore]

The water problem with the 4Runner diffs is caused when the diff is very hot (high speed or loaded driving, say up a hill). The expanded hot air is pushed out of the one-way breather. Then if you quickly submerge it during a cold water crossing the sudden extreme cooldown/contraction can cause water to get sucked through seals.

Just spraying the axle won't do anything. As stated earlier, you do that every time you drive in the rain.

 

[JBurt]

You should extend your rear diff breather though. It's right on top of the axle and can get flooded.

The front breather is up about as high as your air intake, so if you get water in there you also have more significant problems.