A snorkel is one of the most popular 4×4 upgrades around. It’s an installation that can unlock a long list of benefits (but more on that later!) and, depending on your 4×4 brand of choice, can be a relatively straightforward addition. For those of you unfamiliar with the snorkel, there’s certain to be a few questions on your lips. Here we answer the most common queries…
What is a snorkel?
Let’s start with the basics – a 4×4 snorkel is an aftermarket accessory that’s popularly installed on off-road vehicles. In essence, it’s designed to elevate the engine’s air intake above the typical waterline and dust level to unlock some pretty impressive benefits.
The snorkel design typically extends upwards from the engine bay to the roofline, ensuring that the engine receives clean, dry air, even in the most challenging conditions.
Snorkels can also be equipped with a pre-filter head or pre-cleaner, a handy addition that actively cleans the air before it is taken in by the snorkel to minimise the ingress of dust, water and other particles that diminish performance.
Why is a snorkel beneficial?
The addition of a 4×4 snorkel allows the vehicle to safely navigate the world’s toughest terrains, including muddy and dusty settings, all without risking engine damage or air filter clogging.
A snorkel doesn’t just protect your engine from damaging contaminants. It can help your vehicle keep its cool when adventuring in warmer climates. In some cases, a snorkel can also increase airflow to the engine to bolster efficiency and performance further as Desert Divers explains:
“Snorkels can improve fuel economy by allowing the engine to breathe easier. A snorkel kit redirects the air intake from the low-pressure area under the hood to a higher-pressure area, such as the fender, where it can draw in more air. This can improve fuel economy by up to 2%.”
Which types of snorkel are available?
As you’ll discover when shopping for a 4×4 snorkel, there are several options to choose from. Snorkels are however categorised by their design and construction, with the most common snorkel types sporting some key differences.
The ram (or air ram) snorkel for instance is designed to sit on the vehicle’s A-pillar or roof, with its head using air to blast contaminants against the side of the snorkel head, into the snorkel itself and then on through small filters or vents within the snorkel body. This is a standard snorkel design.
Vortex or cyclone snorkels are a little different and offer specialised construction that can cope with the rigours of seriously harsh off-road settings. Unlike ram snorkels, they use centrifugal force to separate the contaminants from the air before pushing them out and taking the cleaner air in. This design is less common, more expensive and typically reserved for agricultural or desert drivers.
Do snorkels help you drive through water?
One of the biggest myths on the snorkel scene is that the installation of a snorkel will help you drive through deep water.
While your snorkel will provide enhanced protection when wading in shallow water, deeper crossings should be avoided at all costs. Driving through depths that are higher than your 4×4 vehicle’s hood can and WILL cause damage. If the water cannot be walked through, it should not be driven through, whether you have a snorkel or not!
Does the addition of a snorkel change the sound of your vehicle?
Contrary to popular belief, the fitting of a 4×4 snorkel doesn’t change the sound of your vehicle. Due to the intake of air however, it can make the turbo spool sound a little louder, which may be notable if you are particularly in tune with your 4WD.
Where can I buy a good quality snorkel?
Right here of course! We stock a number of snorkel kits, including top-rated, vehicle-specific designs from leading brands Bravo Snorkel, Safari and Donaldson. Explore our range of snorkel kits to get started.
