I bought this 98 Limited about a year ago (running ok at the moment) and I'v been wondering and hoping that someone can tell me what this plugged-up 1/2" hose is for and why did some past mechanic cap it off. Please have a look at the pics You can even see a plastic clip to hold down the hose and the cap is rusted maybe suggesting it's been there a while?

 

well from the pics, it looks like its your front diff breather. You should be able to follow that tube down to your front diff. It does have a cap but it is supposed to be "breathing" so that one is right rusted and may be sealed shut.

 

No mechanic capped it off, thats the breather. Albeit a bit aged.

 

X3, looks like a front diff breather.

 

Breather in need of maintenance. Check axle seals for leaks now.

 

Thanks everybody, what shall I get done to this breather tube?

 

Just a new breather/filter. The tube should be fine.

 

Toyota Breather Plug- # 90930-03136