A 4×4 snorkel is more than just an aesthetically pleasing design detail. It has several very practical purposes that could unlock numerous advantages when you head off on your next 4×4 adventure.
A snorkel actively protects your engine from dust and is a useful addition if you plan to wade through shallow water. It also enables cooler air to be taken in by your vehicle, which helps you reap yet more rewards as Take the Truck explains:
“Along with providing cleaner air, a 4×4 snorkel also provides cooler air to the engine. This cooler air entering the combustion chamber is more dense and thus provides a moderate improvement in power and can even increase the fuel efficiency of your overland vehicle.”
Another plus-point of snorkel installation is that the whole process can be undertaken at home. Here are the steps you should take to install your very own and harness the snorkel benefits detailed above.
Start with a great design
Making the most of snorkel installation generally comes down to your choice of product. There are tons of snorkel designs to choose from, but paying attention to two brands in particular could save you a lot of heartache.
From our experience, Bravo and Safari snorkels are the best in the business. These world market leaders certainly know a thing or two about snorkel design, and call on the highest standard of materials and their engineering excellence to produce snorkels that enhance the very performance, durability and drivability of our 4×4 vehicles.
Safari snorkels are split into two categories, Armax and V-Spec, each of which provides an impressive array of features.
Embrace the ease
Whether you’ve decided on a Bravo or Safari snorkel, you can look forward to straightforward and simple installation.
Each snorkel kit comes with its own cutting template as well as all the necessary bolts, fittings and instructions. You’ll need access to some very basic tools to complete snorkel installation. This includes a drill, hole saw, and various wrenches and screwdrivers. You will usually have to remove your vehicle’s fender liner to access the mounting area ahead of cutting, drilling and fitting.
Expect some drilling
Our premium snorkel kits have been specifically designed with your make and model in mind. Vehicle-specific designs ensure only minor adaptation, if any, will be needed. Adjustments may be required to guarantee secure fitment around air filter boxes or other engine bay differences. For vehicles with wheel arches, some overlapping with your snorkel kit may also occur. This is however easily solved with trimming.
Either way, some drilling will need to be undertaken. Use the drilling template provided in your kit for extra ease and efficiency.
Seal your snorkel
Sealing is one step in the installation process that simply can’t be skipped. Joints must be properly assembled and sealed to ensure the optimum level of water tightness. This is especially important if you plan to drive through water in your 4×4. Before taking your vehicle and new snorkel out for a spin, check that the bolts are tight and the seals are secure for the best results and the most thrilling off-road experience.
Ready to get started? Browse our range of snorkels, including designs from Safari and Bravo, today.
