So -- I was mountain biking yesterday and after a few circuits I was waiting for my buddy to show who had just gotten off work (and driven to the wrong trailhead), so I crawled under the cherokee to locate a little oil leak in the oil pan. and..

What appears to be a vaccum line leading down and connecting ahead of the front driveline has been rubbing on the front driveline. The rubber hose and heat shield are completely worn through as a result. Last I used my 4wd it seemed to work fine. I'm assuming its the vaccuum line that actuates the front axle.
Am I accurate? Is it repairable? Should I have a shop do it and all other vacuum lines? How much to repair?

Love the forum.. Thanks

 

i think its the front differential breather hose, you can replace it, or place some hose clamps and a steel tube in the affected area, doesnt matter if you are not using the 4 wheel drive the front driveshaft is moving if the car is moving.... so your xj will be fine....
it goes up to the engine compartment so mud or water doesnt get inside the differential thru the hose... so just replace it or duct tape it. as long as its not obstructed it will be fine. and dont dive into a mud trail or mud/water will get inside the differential.

 

.. thanks a million - that's exactly what it was. I wondered by the line ran to high up the firewall. It's been SOAKING here so hope not too much water has gotten up and in there. should I have my fluids swapped as a precaution?

You guys are the best. Again, quick reply - much needed, thanks.

 

youre welcome, thats what the forum is about helping each other. indeed you can change the fluids as a precaution and check how the gears are doing its a win win, if the fluid has water you will get clean oil in the differential besides you will know when it has been changed and keep track of the maintenance dates, i just changed the pinion seal of the front diff because it was leaking fluid, and changed both differentials fluid, you can use some gear rtv its about $7 in pep boys and 75W90 gear oil about 2 pints i bought royal purple and each one cost $17 with a coupon and theyre are now nice and clean i also gave em a little love and painted the covers black.
hope your fluid its free of water.