There is a cable? leading to the rear axle about halfway between thedifferential and the right rear tire. It enters at the top of the axle. It appears mine has come in contact with the exhaust system and is melted. What is it and its function? Do I need to worry about it?

Doug

99 4.6 HSE
103000 miles

 

Is it a cable or the diff vent tube?

 

After further investigation, I discovered it was in fact a vent tube. I cut off the melted ends and reattached them together with a rubber hose. Is that ok?

Doug

 

As long as the end is high up out of the way of any water and the repaired section doesn't leak, you should be fine.