ARB Differential Breather Kit w/ 4-Port Billet Manifold System
ARB170112
The ARB Differential Breather Kit is a high-flow breather relocation system designed by ARB to protect differentials and other drivetrain assemblies from water contamination, pressure buildup, and vacuum-related seal damage. By routing low-mounted factory breathers to a central elevated location, the system helps keep water and debris away from critical drivetrain fluids during creek crossings, mud, and demanding off-road use.
The kit uses a billet aluminum manifold with four breather-line ports and one central filter port, along with 8 meters of 8mm polyethylene tubing. It can support front and rear differentials, a transmission, and a transfer case from one compact manifold, giving builders a clean and serviceable breather layout for most 4x4 vehicles including Jeeps, trucks, rock crawlers, overland rigs, and custom off-road vehicles.
Includes:
- (1) Billet Anodized Aluminum 5-Port Manifold
- (4) 1/8" BSP Breather-Line Ports
- (1) 1/4" NPT Air Filter Port
- (1) Splash-Resistant Air Filter Assembly
- (4) 8mm-to-1/8" BSP Push-In Fittings
- (3) 1/8" BSP Port Plugs
- 8 Meters of 8mm Polyethylene Tubing
- (2) Self-Tapping Mounting Screws
- (25) Cable Ties
- Installation Instructions
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | ARB |
| Product Type | Drivetrain Breather Relocation Kit |
| Manifold Material | Anodized Billet Aluminum |
| Total Manifold Ports | 5 |
| Breather-Line Ports | (4) 1/8" BSP |
| Air Filter Port | (1) 1/4" NPT |
| Tubing Outside Diameter | 8mm |
| Tubing Material | Polyethylene |
| Tubing Length | 8 Meters |
| Air Filter Type | Splash-Resistant Central Vent Filter |
| Supported Assemblies | Up to 4 with Appropriate Tubing and Fittings |
| Mounting | Compact Remote-Mount Design |
Fitment
Universal breather relocation system for drivetrain assemblies that require atmospheric pressure venting.
- Front Differentials
- Rear Differentials
- Manual and Automatic Transmissions
- Transfer Cases
- Custom Axle and Drivetrain Assemblies
- Jeeps, Trucks, SUVs, Rock Crawlers, Rock Bouncers, and Overland Vehicles
- UTV and Side-by-Side Applications When Used with the Correct Adapters
Fitment Notes
- Verify the thread size and style of each factory breather location before installation.
- Additional adapters may be required for factory housings that do not use a compatible breather thread.
- The manifold should be mounted at a protected location above the expected water-crossing level.
- Keep tubing away from exhaust heat, moving suspension parts, driveshafts, and sharp edges.
- Additional 8mm tubing may be required when connecting all four drivetrain assemblies on long-wheelbase vehicles.
Tech Insight
1. Why do differentials and transfer cases need breathers?
Drivetrain fluid and trapped air expand as the assembly heats up and contract as it cools. A breather allows the internal pressure to equalize instead of forcing oil past seals or pulling contamination into the housing.
2. How does a raised breather help during water crossings?
When a hot axle or transmission enters cold water, the internal air can cool quickly and create a vacuum. Moving the breather opening to a higher location reduces the chance of water being drawn into the housing as the pressure equalizes.
3. How many drivetrain assemblies can this kit connect?
The manifold provides four 1/8" BSP breather-line ports. These can be used for assemblies such as the front differential, rear differential, transmission, and transfer case. The included tubing is enough for many installations, but larger vehicles may require additional tubing.
4. Where should the breather manifold be mounted?
Mount the manifold in a clean, protected, and elevated area that remains above the expected water level. The location should also allow access to the filter for inspection and service.
5. Does installing a breather kit make the drivetrain waterproof?
No. A raised breather reduces the chance of contamination entering through factory vent points, but axle, transmission, and transfer-case seals must still be in good condition. Extended submersion can allow water to enter through worn seals or other openings.
