Hole unplugged in axle housing

[cdsol]

While looking for something else under the rear of my '91 Explorer 2WD, I noticed an open (vent?) hole on top of the rear axle housing, between the differential and left rear tire. There was a hose dangling from above it with a plug (probably a fitting with a hole plugged with gunk) that appears like it should have plugged into the hole.

No idea how long that hole was unplugged. Do I need to panic about dust and grime having entered it that will chew up the innards, and immediately change fluids? Or just clean/replace the fitting into the housing and hose then go about my business?

Thanks!

/Carl S
Dallas TX
cdsol@swbell.net

 

[cgriffin_5139]

Its your axle vent tube and yess change the fluid and replace the vent!

 

[RangerX]

Pfft. just slip that hose back on and call it good.
Every now and then, mine will slip off while really flexing offroad, and I just pop it back on. Mine came stock with just the tube, no breather vent or anything. 225,000 miles later, no issues.

 

[cgriffin_5139]

Pfft. just slip that hose back on and call it good.
Every now and then, mine will slip off while really flexing offroad, and I just pop it back on. Mine came stock with just the tube, no breather vent or anything. 225,000 miles later, no issues.

LOL

 

[sn0border88]

its fine.