Slick 60's

This tube is on the driver's side of my 223 it looks like it may have been cut at some point. What is/was it for?

Crankcase vent tube
That's how it should look

Ah gotcha. Thanks

Make sure it is clean and functioning correctly, it will suck fumes and oil straight onto the ground
You might try a search for the more modern and efficient pcv vent that goes to the intake manifold.

Also called a roadraft tube. I'm not sure about the 6 cylinders but the y block tube had a replaceable filter.

So basically this is a primitive pcv valve? If I install a PCV valve should I block this off?

Yes, the road draft tube and positive crankcase ventilation valve perform the same purpose. The doesn't drip oil and works even when not moving. The road draft needs air movement to pull the vapors out of the crankcase.

I'll definitely be adding the pcv valve install to the list. Thanks again

The original PCV applications tied into the same location. You will need to retain the vented breather for circulation.
Paul

I have seen some threads over on facebook for sale site of the 223 being removed, or for sale. you might post an iso post here and over there someone may have one. I will check with my son later to see if he has an extra.Tom at flashback will have one for sure.

There's a PCV valve that replaces the down draft tube? I was thinking that I'd have block the tube off and drill the valve cover to put one in.

You should be able to change the filter out by removing the bolt in the center of the draft tube housing. I personally had rather have the draft tube as it is without the PCV valve. I remember when the PCV valves first came out we were getting rid of them for the old system, we didn't want all the anti pollution stuff on our trucks.

Page 1-35 of the 61 shop manual has a great representation of the pcv system. it goes from the same place on the block up and over to the intake manifold, it bolts up to the bolt that holds the throttle linkage. if kept clean it will not foul the air or the floor with noxious fumes, it also keeps the oil much cleaner between changes.
I can not seem to post a copy, hopefully someone else will
John