What Is A Snorkel Used For On A Car?

A vehicle snorkel is an aftermarket accessory that moves the air intake system higher, allowing the engine to breathe underwater and prevent contaminant and water ingestion. It works by moving the intake point near the roof, allowing the engine to breathe cleaner air. A car snorkel is an add-on feature for off-road vehicles, preventing water from entering the engine and helping the air intake system get clean air.

A vehicle snorkel functions as an elevated airway for the vehicle’s engine, allowing it to breathe clean air, which is particularly crucial when the vehicle is deep water crossings. It provides more airflow than the vehicle’s air-box can take in without a snorkel. Snorkels are often used by enthusiasts as an accessory for their SUVs and are the land-based equivalent of submarine snorkels, which allow submarines to use diesel engines while submerged.

A vehicle snorkel acts similarly to humans, taking in clean air from above the water to let the car breathe. It also saves air. Most people associate the snorkel with water crossings, as it prevents water from flooding through the vehicle’s airbox and into the engine. Generally, a snorkel is used to enhance the waterwading capacity of the vehicle, increasing the maximum water level through which the intake moves.

A snorkel or breathing tube is one of the most important 4×4 accessories for off-road vehicles, and its existence greatly contributes to the overall performance and safety of the vehicle.

Do snorkels reduce airflow?

Do snorkels reduce airflow? Quite the opposite. Snorkels are designed to increase airflow to the engine with the ‘ram effect’ – using forward motion to push clean air into your engine. Not only that, but that forced air intake as opposed to the engine sucking air in means your engine is getting more of what it needs.

Aside from giving your rig an added aesthetic, the benefits of a snorkel on a 4WD can include improved fuel efficiency, increased performance, and reduced wear and tear.

Questions that are often asked is what does a snorkel do on a 4×4? what is the purpose of a snorkel on a 4×4? How does a snorkel work?

The elevated position of the snorkel allows your vehicle to take in cleaner and cooler air that’s contaminant free. Moving the engines air intake from beneath your bonnet to roof height protects your vehicle from water entering the engine when crossing rivers or high tides and avoids dust that is kicked up from your vehicle and the ones in front.

What is the point of using a snorkel?

Snorkel masks cover your eyes and nose, so you can see underwater without it going up your nose. The snorkel is a flexible tube that allows you to breathe while you have your face in the water. You hold one end in your mouth and for air exchange to happen, the top of the tube has to poke out about the water’s surface.

This splash guard helps keeps water out of the snorkel that could get in there from splashes from waves or other swimmers.

Semi-dry snorkels also have a purge valve. The purge valve is located at the bottom end of the snorkel letting you get rid of water in the tube really easily.

Dry snorkels and semi-dry snorkels have the same features such as purge valves, but dry snorkels also have a float valve.

Does a snorkel improve car performance?

Purchasing a vehicle snorkel ought to improve your car’s performance at most engine speeds. Furthermore, it should reduce fuel consumption and make your engine run cleaner. Not all snorkel body designs produce a cold air induction effect. This effect improves fuel efficiency while also improving engine power. Once installed, your 4WD will be ready for new adventures and maybe some river crossings and let’s be honest….just look cool.

Article courtesy of: Michael Kirk-Williams, Australian engineer and designer ofAirflow Snorkels. Editor: Lori Palmer.

Why do people put snorkels on their cars?

The main purpose of a snorkel is access to clean air. Most people associate the snorkel with water crossings, as it prevents water from flooding through the vehicle’s airbox and into the engine, potentially causing electrical and mechanical damage. But a properly installed snorkel can also protect your engine from the dust that would normally enter the air intake under the vehicle’s wheel well. It works just as a swimming snorkel does – by raising the air intake, your lungs have access to the water-free air above you.

It is important to note that installing a snorkel does not give your off-road vehicle an Aquaman-like ability to breathe underwater for long periods of time. Manufacturers not only set wading and intake depths based on which components are most likely to be damaged in a water crossing, but also take into account how well sealed the cabin is from water intrusion. Have you installed a lift kit or swapped out stock tires for larger ones? These factors will also impact how you approach a water crossing.

Snorkel fitment is another important consideration. The best bet, in our experience, is to purchase a snorkel that is made specifically for your vehicle. A snug fit is important here – you don’t want any leaks! We’ve had great success with the, and have installed them on every one of our vehicles since 2010 (with the exception of the Prospector and Gladiator builds, for which AEV manufactures ). If you don’t have the tools and materials, head to your local 4×4 shop for help with installation.

What are the disadvantages of snorkeling?

Tip: Wear a full-body swimsuit when snorkeling in deep and cold water. You can add a hood, gloves, and fins for added warmth. However, on Phu Quoc island, if you only swim near the water’s surface you don’t need to wear that much.

Overheating. In a tropical environment, overheating often occurs when snorkeling, but most people don’t realize it due to being submerged in the water.It happens because of overexposure to the sun and too much indulgence in snorkeling for a long time. Your body heats up faster if you wear a wetsuit.The blood flow to the skin will increase, and your heart has to work harder. Overheating can lead to nausea, dizziness, and heatstroke.Tip: Take frequent breaks while snorkeling in warm waters, be aware if you feel that you are getting hot, and stay hydrated.

Dehydration and Exhaustion. Snorkeling is a physical activity. You’re going to sweat a lot that you may not realize. This means you will burn a lot of energy like a full-body workout. At the same time, you tend to forget to drink water which is very important. Because you are getting indulged in exploring.

Is a snorkel worth the money?

After all it’s built to work as it comes. However, for those who want to get the best out of their vehicles, and give their engines the greatest chance of a long life, a snorkel really is a great investment. Regardless of which direction you go, poly or stainless steel, your motor will thank you for it in the long run.

Stainless Steel vs Plastic Snorkels. The difference between a plastic snorkel vs a stainless steel snorkel is fairly obvious. While they both serve the same purpose (to provide your motor with lots of cool, clean air) there are a few points of difference worth mentioning.

• Snorkel Aesthetics. While the look of a snorkel is obviously personal preference, the popularity of the stainless steel snorkel aesthetic is growing. A brand such as Meredith Metalworks stainless steel snorkels (see here) are designed to be recessed into the guard making them follow the body lines of your vehicle, presenting a sleek, smooth finish.

The good quality stainless steel snorkels (such as those from Meredith) are also designed to be completely seamless, which adds to the overall modern and classy look of the vehicle it’s on. Stainless steel snorkels usually come in either powder coasted black or a brushed/polished silver chrome finish.

Does my car need a snorkel?

A snorkel is one of the best investments you will add to your 4WD. Whilst most people think you only need a snorkel if you are heading through deep water crossings, I would like to explain here how important a good quality snorkel can be to assist your travels and expectations of long service life from your 4WD engine.

Snorkels, like any modification, come at a price.. Get insurance that covers your modifications and accessories for what they’re really worth, including labour.

Obviously, without a snorkel, a trip to Cape York could be a problem. Lined up at one of the various creek crossings and seeing others getting stuck can make people a little anxious. By the time their turn comes around, they might hit the water a little hard, ensuring they don’t become one of the recovered wet vehicles. This will test your snorkel’s design for sure.

Should I put a snorkel on my car?

After all it’s built to work as it comes. However, for those who want to get the best out of their vehicles, and give their engines the greatest chance of a long life, a snorkel really is a great investment. Regardless of which direction you go, poly or stainless steel, your motor will thank you for it in the long run.

Stainless Steel vs Plastic Snorkels. The difference between a plastic snorkel vs a stainless steel snorkel is fairly obvious. While they both serve the same purpose (to provide your motor with lots of cool, clean air) there are a few points of difference worth mentioning.

• Snorkel Aesthetics. While the look of a snorkel is obviously personal preference, the popularity of the stainless steel snorkel aesthetic is growing. A brand such as Meredith Metalworks stainless steel snorkels (see here) are designed to be recessed into the guard making them follow the body lines of your vehicle, presenting a sleek, smooth finish.

The good quality stainless steel snorkels (such as those from Meredith) are also designed to be completely seamless, which adds to the overall modern and classy look of the vehicle it’s on. Stainless steel snorkels usually come in either powder coasted black or a brushed/polished silver chrome finish.

Are car snorkels worth it?

After all it’s built to work as it comes. However, for those who want to get the best out of their vehicles, and give their engines the greatest chance of a long life, a snorkel really is a great investment. Regardless of which direction you go, poly or stainless steel, your motor will thank you for it in the long run.

Stainless Steel vs Plastic Snorkels. The difference between a plastic snorkel vs a stainless steel snorkel is fairly obvious. While they both serve the same purpose (to provide your motor with lots of cool, clean air) there are a few points of difference worth mentioning.

• Snorkel Aesthetics. While the look of a snorkel is obviously personal preference, the popularity of the stainless steel snorkel aesthetic is growing. A brand such as Meredith Metalworks stainless steel snorkels (see here) are designed to be recessed into the guard making them follow the body lines of your vehicle, presenting a sleek, smooth finish.

The good quality stainless steel snorkels (such as those from Meredith) are also designed to be completely seamless, which adds to the overall modern and classy look of the vehicle it’s on. Stainless steel snorkels usually come in either powder coasted black or a brushed/polished silver chrome finish.

What are the disadvantages of a snorkel on a car?

Disadvantages of vehicle snorkel. 1. The biggest disadvantage of a snorkel is the installation part, which involves carving a hole in the fender and drilling bolts throughthe vehicle body.

2. Though a snorkel will let your car wade through water, it will not help if the water is deeper than the vehicle’s wading capacity. This is because water deeper than the wading capacity can damage the electrical components and cause serious malfunctioning, even though the snorkel could keep the engine running.

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What is the purpose of a snorkel on a 4×4?

How does a snorkel work?. You can think of your 4×4 snorkel as similar to one you’d use when diving. The snorkel simply moves the air intake to a higher elevation. This protects the engine by supplying only the cleanest air – no dust, no water. This basically means your engine can breathe in tough conditions, whether you’re traversing sandy and dusty terrain or driving through shallow waters.

So what are the benefits? Well, as important protective equipment, there are numerous benefits to snorkels for 4x4s:

• Cleaner, cooler air will avoid hot, dirty air getting into your engine
• Over time, you’ll have a more efficient engine because of this cleaner air causing fewer problems, maintaining a high level of engine performance
• You’ll be able to tackle shallow water without it being drawn into the engine – something which would ordinarily cause real issues for your engine
• If you’re using your 4×4 for work – especially in agriculture – not only can you prevent dust impacting your engine, but you also avoid drawing in any chemicals
• They look great, trunking their way upwards to give your vehicle a serious edge off-road

How much does it cost to install a snorkel on a car?

The cost of installing a snorkel on a 4WD can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle make and model, the brand and quality of the snorkel, and the complexity of the installation process. On average, the cost of a snorkel and installation can range from $300 to $800 or more. It’s recommended to consult with Automotive Superstore or a professional installer for specific pricing based on your vehicle and the snorkel options available. They can provide you with a more accurate cost estimate and help you choose the right snorkel for your 4WD.

While 4WD snorkels offer numerous advantages, there are a few potential disadvantages to consider. One disadvantage is the increased wind noise generated while driving at higher speeds, as the snorkel alters the aerodynamics of the vehicle. Additionally, some snorkels may require modifications or relocation of other components under the bonnet, such as the airbox or battery. This could result in decreased accessibility or additional installation complexity. It’s important to carefully research and choose a snorkel designed for your specific 4WD model and consider any potential trade-offs before making a decision.

The need for a snorkel on your 4WD depends on your intended usage and the types of terrain and conditions you frequently encounter. A snorkel is particularly beneficial when traversing deep water crossings, dusty environments, or areas with high levels of water, dust, or debris. It helps minimize the risk of water entering the engine during water crossings and allows for cleaner air intake in dusty conditions. If you frequently engage in off-road adventures or drive in challenging environments, a snorkel can be a valuable addition to your 4WD. It’s recommended to assess your needs, consult with experts, and consider the specific requirements of your vehicle before deciding to install a snorkel.