New member long time lurker

[MontanaPat]

Howdy guys! Joined so I can tap the knowledge on this forum, TIA. Been lurking for a long time because I can usually find an answer in previous posts. I'm working on a kids truck 1997 Ram 1500 5.2. Going through it, it hasn't been maintained well. Replaced the ps steering box, ps pump and the fuel pump. I pulled the rear diff cover (no drain) to change the fluid. I knew immediately it was a bubba job because the gasket was blue RTV. I found a couple of metal pieces in the bottom of the diff (see pic). I'm wondering if anyone can id them so I have an idea what I'm dealing with. I figure I will be rebuilding the pumpkin at least although there is no visible damage. Not a diff guy but have rebuilt engines and done a bunch of other work on cars so I figure this is within my skill set. Thanks for any help. Pat

 

[Burla]

Looks like the bottom of the vent tube, some after market ones too. How is it driving? If everything is good that shouldn't be an issue. look up breather tube.

I haven't done any diff work, but I believe that piece keeps oil from clogging breather.

If you flip it around is it ribbed?

 

[Burla]

This is an OEM of early gen one

 

[Burla]

It probably popped off whole and then gears broke it or grinded it whatever. Looks like some is still missing, but who knows it is an older truck.

 

[MontanaPat]

No ribs on it. I'll check the vent and see what it looks like. Thanks!

 

[aszumilo]

Look at part #8 location on this diagram. That should be where the vent should be. If it is not, it probably got sheared off and pieces dropped down into the axle tubes and them wound up in the pumpkin.

 

[MontanaPat]

Thanks for the help. The vent appears fine. I'm getting no noise from the diff jacked up and rotating so I'm going to button it up and see what happens. I think someone did a poor job the last time it was worked on.