Wix 46978 Engine Crankcase Breather Element

Wix 46978 Engine Crankcase Breather Element

The Wix 46978 engine crankcase breather element is a wire mesh breather filter built for light-duty applications that need clean crankcase ventilation. Its closed top, 1.100-inch outer diameter, and 0.900-inch height make it a compact service part for select Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles.

Compatible With 1986-1998 Ford Mustang, Ford Explorer, Ford Thunderbird, Ford LTD Crown Victoria, Ford E-150 Econoline, Ford E-150 Econoline Club Wagon, Ford E-250 Econoline, Ford LTD, Lincoln Mark VII, Lincoln Town Car, and Mercury Colony Park applications, this breather filter is identified by part number 46978.

• Wire mesh media for crankcase breather filtration
• Breather filter style with closed inner diameter top
• Light-duty construction for emission control service
• Compact dimensions: 0.900 in. height and 1.100 in. outer diameter
• Direct replacement reference: Wix 46978

How It Works

This breather element helps filter air entering or exiting the crankcase, supporting cleaner ventilation in the emission control system. Wix positions filtration as a maintenance component that helps equipment stay closer to its original operating condition for longer service intervals, and this part follows that service-focused approach for the listed Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury fitments. This part cross-references Ford (e.g., E6ZZ6A631B) for the same application.

Common Issues It May Address

• Dirty or restricted crankcase breather media
• Oil vapor residue buildup around the breather assembly
• Reduced ventilation performance in the crankcase system
• Service replacement for worn breather filter elements
• Fitment-specific replacement needs on classic Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the breather housing dimensions before installation, especially the 1.100-inch outer diameter and closed-top design. Confirm the application against the vehicle’s original breather element specification for 1986-1998 Ford Mustang, 1996-1998 Ford Explorer, and the other listed fitments. Clean the surrounding housing area before installing Wix 46978 to help maintain proper airflow through the breather assembly.

Quality Assurance

Wix is known for filtration products and supplemental maintenance items used to support filter installation and service life management. The 46978 breather element follows that filtration-focused approach for emission control applications.