Ford Explorer: Front Drive Axle/Differential / Removal and Installation - Differential Breather Tube

Removal

NOTE: Removal steps in this procedure may contain installation details.

1. Remove the front RH wheel only.
   Refer to: Wheel and Tire (204-04A Wheels and Tires, Removal and Installation).
   

1. 
   
   1. Remove the pin-type retainer.
      
   2. Remove the bolts and the radiator air deflector.
      
   3. Remove the bolts.
      
   4. Remove the retainers and the engine undershield.
      

1. Remove the pin-type retainers and the RH steering gear splash shield.
   

1. Disconnect the breather hose from the front axle assembly vent tube and detach the breather hose tie straps.
   

1. Detach the tie strap and remove the front axle assembly breather hose.
   

1. NOTICE: Make sure the axle assembly vent tube and vent plug is not damaged or blocked.

   Clean and inspect the front axle assembly vent tube.
   

1. NOTE: This step is not necessary when installing a new component.

   Inspect front axle assembly the vent tube for blocked or cracked. Install new vent tube and vent plug if .
   

Installation

1. To install, reverse the removal the procedure.