D3 - front diff breather

[PeterOZ]

Folks,
got oil leak on the front diff and suspect it is the pinion seal. I have read that a blocked front diff breather can cause that due to pressure build up.

I found what was left of my tube last night, it is about level with the bottom of coolant reservoir, no cap on it, looks like the end had been broken off when the engine swap was done about 5 years ago.

If there a way to check if the tube itself has blockages? Not sure if you can get it off the diff itself?

I was going to get the upgraded breather cap as per the TSB.

TIA

cheers
Peter

[scarry]

Blow down it,in situ,you will soon work out whether its blocked.

The D4 had a little filter on the end of it.

[PeterOZ]

Blow down it,in situ,you will soon work out whether its blocked.

The D4 had a little filter on the end of it.

that may be a challenge as what is left is down about level with the bottom of coolant bottle, I'll see if I can pull it out and have a crack.

[DiscoJeffster]

Blow down it,in situ,you will soon work out whether its blocked.

The D4 had a little filter on the end of it.

Where is the air going to go??? As far as I’m aware the diff is a sealed unit (obviously so what doesn’t get in) - the vent is there to avoid pressure or vacuum situations AFAIK.

[PeterOZ]

just found a thread on this forum about the TSB

replacement front diff breather Disco 3 and 4

[scarry]

Where is the air going to go??? As far as I’m aware the diff is a sealed unit (obviously so what doesn’t get in) - the vent is there to avoid pressure or vacuum situations AFAIK.

Done it a hundred times,you will slightly pressurise the diff,then feel the pressure waft back out.
I have done it mainly with vehicles with solid axle,the D4 diff has a smaller volume but it should work the same.
If you are really worried remove the filler plug,then blow through it.

And for Pete,maybe a bit of hose will slide over the remaining hose,making the job easier?

For those with Jap vehicles,there is often a check valve on the end of the diff breather tube that needs to be removed before checking for blockages.

[PeterOZ]

I have ordered the upgraded breather from rimmer bros, in the interim I will put a bit of sponge over the end of the hose to stop crap and or inspects getting in there.

[PerthDisco]

I have ordered the upgraded breather from rimmer bros, in the interim I will put a bit of sponge over the end of the hose to stop crap and or inspects getting in there.

I found one of my garden sprinkler dribblers fitted perfectly and provide insect protection

[PeterOZ]

I found one of my garden sprinkler dribblers fitted perfectly and provide insect protection

will wash the engine bay at same time

[scarry]

will wash the engine bay at same time

And bring up a few fault codes……