Venting the Differential

Sometimes overlooked by mechanics and restorers is a small vent in the rear axle housing. This part is necessary to keep internal pressure equal to the outside atmosphere. Thus, as the internal temperature of the differential warms during use, any expanding heated air is vented and no pressure occurs. This saves wheel and pinion seals from leaking.

Check for this vent in your truck. From years of abuse many vent assemblies are missing. A sliding log chain wrapped around the axle housing for pulling is a way many vent assemblies were accidentally removed. The owner usually didn't know the damage has been done or that a vent ever existed. Now, the small hole that once held the vent assembly is able to take in water. This is certainly not good for the internal differential parts.