Broken Part Rear Axle 2001 Pathy

[mickeydo]

Hi,

Newbie here. Can someone advise on the part that broke off from the rear axle, right next to the transmission fill plug. Pic is attached. Looks like rust deterioration might be the cause. What does this part actually control? Can it be easily welded back by an experienced welder? Is this a fairly common problem for the 2001 Pathfinder? Thanks.

[mickeydo]

I should add that it's a 4WD model and I have been driving in 2WD with no apparent issues.

[mickeydo]

I got lucky and found the part in a search - it's the brake load sensing valve (LSV) only found on the 4WD model. Has anyone had this bracket break off from the transfer case? Can it be welded back on? Thanks

[Hawairish]

Correct, that assembly is the LSV. The bracket hanging down connects to the back of the pumpkin on the axle. When there's a load in the cargo area of the vehicle, it pulls on the spring and valve, and it'll proportion the brakes for a little more rear bias. The mounting tabs for the bracket can probably be welded back on easily.

If you're not carrying cargo, it has little effect. My 2wd Frontier had it and it was noticeable when loaded. It didn't appear on later R50s; my 04 4wd doesn't have it. You could probably pull the spring and bracket off and not worry about it, but if you haul or tow things and can get it welded back on for cheap, may as well.

[mickeydo]

Thanks for the input Hawairish, I will get it welded back on eventually but will now be at ease knowing that the vehicle is safe to operate in this condition.