A 4×4 snorkel actively elevates the air intake of your engine. It represents an inexpensive modification that not only enhances performance but works to improve the aesthetics of your 4×4 too.
In this blog post, we take a closer look at how you can find the best snorkel kit for your 4×4, what benefits can be unlocked with an aftermarket fitting, and the brands you should buy when shopping for a quality snorkel that’s designed and engineered for excellence.
The benefits of a snorkel upgrade
There are many benefits that go hand-in-hand with the fitting of a 4×4 snorkel. This conversion kit enables cleaner air to be taken in by your engine to reduce the intake of harmful contaminants, such as dust, dirt and grease. The result is a cooler, clearer engine system that is appropriately protected against internal damage.
Snorkel use has also been linked to better fuel economy. With less micro particles cluttering up your engine, it will be able to work more efficiently, meaning you’ll use less fuel on those trips on and off the road.
Snorkels are applauded for their advantages when wading too. But, a word of warning, the elevated position of the snorkel is only useful in shallow water as Ultimate Off-Roading details:
“The biggest claim made by the marketers of air intake snorkels is that they will allow the vehicle to wade through deep water. The perception created is that the vehicle could be driven submerged with only the snorkel intake protruding above the water’s surface. Nothing could be further from the truth… At a wading depth higher than the vehicle’s hood, the vehicle’s interior will also flood.”
Shopping for your 4×4 snorkel
When selecting a snorkel for your 4×4, quality matters. Cheaper snorkel kits are thin and can become easily damaged, with stones and branches nemeses of the snorkel.
You should choose a snorkel from a well-known brand that is made from Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) or another high-grade material. Commonly used LLDPE is durable and UV resistant, ensuring minimal colour fading over time and preventing expensive repair or snorkel replacement.
There is also a range of snorkel heads to choose from, the most popular being the Air Ram and Vortex (also known as Cyclone). Both snorkel head types present their own benefits and drawbacks.
Top brands for snorkel kits
You don’t have to search far for snorkel kits from the world’s most respected brands. Here at 4×4 Works, we stock a wide range of premium snorkel kits for your perusal, including Safari Snorkels and Bravo Snorkels.
Crafted by a world-leading Australian brand, Safari Snorkels are well known for their quality, durability and performance. With snorkels available as V-spec kits (the traditional Safari snorkel design) and Armax (an innovative add-on known for its bigger size and more substantial airflow), you can find the vehicle-specific snorkel you need as well as a lifetime warranty. For further information, shop our Safari Snorkels.
Bravo is another brand that’s applauded for supplying premium snorkel kits. Covered by a five-year warranty and boasting a high standard and original design, the Bravo kit is a favourite amongst off-roaders.
Bravo Snorkels prevent engine power loss, overheating, dust build-ups and water ingress in both normal and demanding driving scenarios. Explore our range of Bravo Snorkels for details.
You can browse our extensive range of snorkel kits, including those from Safari and Bravo, right here.
