Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts

Transfer case milkshake and breather tube

Good Hope

TJ Enthusiast
Original poster
Supporting Member
Joined
Feb 20, 2022
Messages
156
Location
Big Island
So I heard a rattle and a whine in what I think is the transfer case so I decided to pull it thinking I had a bearing going out. And discovered the fluid looked like a pink milkshake, which usually, I think, means water in the fluid. I did find a suspect bearing so I replaced it-fingers crossed that was the problem. But in the process of trying to figure out how I could have had water in the fluid, I found a breather tube low spot filled with water. Now I have never had the rig in any water deeper than a few inches, so that’s not the issue. I did notice that the breather tube runs from the transfer case across the top of the transmission and terminates at a bracket located where the engine connects to the transmission. Which, I think, is lower than all the other breather tube outlets. Any thoughts on how I ended up with water in the case? I had it apart about 2 years ago when I lived in Arizona to install a SLE and didn’t have problems at that time. Is it important to eliminate sags in the breather tube to avoid fluid buildup? I am just at a loss as to what to do to avoid this from happening again.
 
The vent hose for the transfer case is supposed to be held by plastic clips on the firewall near its center inside the engine compartment. The top end of the vent hose should be positioned near the top of the firewall.
 
I have a 2006 with the 42RLE and my transfer case breather hose is routed/mounted the same as the OP’s. Stops at a bracket that attaches to the upper drivers side transmission mount bolt. It came from the factory like that.
 
Big Island meaning Hawaii?

The vent hose allows air to flow both ways. If it's humid, moist air can potentially condense inside the hose and the low spot could be where it collects. Ultimately it ends up in the fluid.

My transfer case had a hole in the vent hose when I got it. I replaced the hose and ziptied it straight and safely out of the way of anything that could damage it.
 
Big Island meaning Hawaii?

The vent hose allows air to flow both ways. If it's humid, moist air can potentially condense inside the hose and the low spot could be where it collects. Ultimately it ends up in the fluid.

My transfer case had a hole in the vent hose when I got it. I replaced the hose and ziptied it straight and safely out of the way of anything that could damage it.

I think this is what is happening-humid air condensing and building up in a low spot. I just can’t think of any other source for the water. And I am in Hawaii, but have only been here a few months after being in Arizona for years-wouldn’t think it would cause problems so quickly. I am thinking of buying some breather hose and extending it up the fire wall as Jerry describes other jeeps are configured, while trying to eliminate any low spots where moisture could build up.
 
I think this is what is happening-humid air condensing and building up in a low spot. I just can’t think of any other source for the water. And I am in Hawaii, but have only been here a few months after being in Arizona for years-wouldn’t think it would cause problems so quickly. I am thinking of buying some breather hose and extending it up the fire wall as Jerry describes other jeeps are configured, while trying to eliminate any low spots where moisture could build up.
Good plan. Properly positioned and mounted there will not be, nor should there be, a low spot in any vent tube.
 
Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts