Why Use a Snorkel?
Clean air is important to any vehicle engine and one can only imagine the conditions a 4WD air system would be subject to when driven offroad. Harsh conditions such as driving deep through water crossings and driving on extremely dusty outback tracks will be detrimental to your engine without proper air filtration.
A snorkel is quite simply a raised air intake system and allows the vehicle to be completely submerged as long as the main intake is free of water. A snorkel is highly recommended if you intend to travel in the outback. Beside creek and river crossings, heavy rains or flooding can be a constant threat and roads could become underwater in considerably short periods of time.
Snorkels can protect the engine from dust because air that is drawn from the roof level does not have as much dust content as in the air lower to the ground. This results in a cooler and cleaner air intake, which will also prolong the life of the air filtration system.
Water and Engines
Water ingested into a vehicle’s engine will not only affect performance, it could stall the engine and even damage it. In some worse case scenarios and in particular with diesel engines, water can cause costly damage.
Water is incompressible and if this water gets into the cylinder chamber, it may stall the engine and potentially bend a connecting rod or worse. The damage potential could be increased exponentially with higher compression ratios. For example; a low compression petrol engine may possibly be restarted, by removing the plugs and cranking the starter motor so the water can be spit out (mind you – this doesn’t always work). With high compression engines of 20:1 or higher as in some diesels, water in the intake can have dire consequences. The damage to these engines from just a small amount of water (e.g. half a cup) could potentially end up in the thousands of dollars.
Dust and Engines
All vehicles have air filters to clean the air from harmful particles such as dust. An air filter is the first line of defense for your engine and the filter element which is usually paper-based is replaced when the vehicle gets a service. It is well known that a dirty air filter which hasn’t been changed in a while will cause poor
engine performance. When traveling in the outback, fine desert dust could potentially work its way through a standard paper filter if it’s already full of dust. Some argue that this dust can act as an abrasive on the cylinder walls and may also contaminate the engine’s oil.
A Diesel engine with a dirty air filter will pose a higher risk then a petrol engine because of the need for an obstruction-free smooth and clean air stream for the combustion chamber. The injectors will keep spraying the same fuel amount, so if the combustion chambers are not getting enough air, a richer mixture of diesel will spark. This will lead to a hotter than ideal burn in the combustion chamber, which of coarse is not good for any engine.
Snorkel FAQs
Below is a list of questions that are frquently asked in regards to a 4WD snorkel.
Will rain go down the inside of a snorkel ram?
Even in a tropical rain storm, only a tiny volume of the impact moisture will enter the snorkel. The incoming rain droplets are broken up on entry. The high speed of the air stream, as it turns the 90 corner causes the heavier rain droplets to move to the outside surfaces. Here the rain is collected in the expanded lower body of the air ram (outside the snorkel body) and allowed to drain out, via the slots provided.
Can a snorkel be fitted in conjunction with L.P.G?
Snorkels are primarily developed to protect diesel and petrol engines. We suggest you ensure that your L.P.G installer has sufficient experience to use the correct LPG equipment, together with the necessary tuning knowledge.
What air filter element should be used in conjunction with a snorkel?
Most snorkels are designed to be used only in conjunction with genuine original equipment air filter elements. Be aware that some snorkel manufacturers do not recommend any type of oiled foam element, yet for others there is no restriction.
Snorkel Installation
While you can fit a snorkel yourself, presuming you have all the necessary tools, the installation time usually takes around two hours. It involves cutting a large hole (around 86mm) through the guard and attaching the snorkel to the guard and the A-pillar. Also consider that when a snorkel is fitted, the standard air manifolds will be removed.
It is highly recommended that you have a snorkel professionally fitted. Make sure you inspect the designs and ask how tight the connections are as to prevent dust and water ingress. When deciding on a snorkel, make sure it has been airflow tested for your particular engine. Diesel engines and especially a turbo diesel engine can require more than 40% more air than a petrol engine.
Snorkel Installation Diagram
The diagram below shows a general installation of a TJM snorkel on the side of a vehicle. Snorkel installations like the one shown, are quite standard for most vehicles.
Snorkel Manufacturers
There are two main brands of snorkels on the market and they are: Safari and Airtec.
Safari
Developed by Peter Luxon, the Safari snorkel has a raised intake which is level with the top of the windshield to help reduce dust ingress. They are made with UV stable polyethylene and include quality fixtures and fittings that ensure superior sealing. These snorkels are thoroughly researched and tested and tooled for most popular 4WDs in
Australia.
Airtec
The Airtec snorkel has an intake design that separates rain and moisture from the air stream. The snorkel design has a smooth inner wall which allows uninterrupted air flow. It’s manufactured with UV-resistant polyethylene for maximum strength and rigidity and incorporates stainless steel hardware. There is an optional pre-cleaner snorkel assembly that’s available for extreme dust conditions. The Airtec snorkel is available in a wide range to fit most popular 4WD makes and models.
Portable Fridges
The debate over which fridge is the best on the market is one of the most contested discussions in the camping recreation. In this article we look at the range of features and the major issues to consider when comparing brands and models.
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UHF Radio
If you are considering a trip into Australia’s vast outback, then a UHF Radio is an important communications device to have. Besides the entertainment value, such as chatting with other travellers, this radio can be a valuable part of your contingency list.
Recovery Gear Needs
The majority of situations that will stop a 4WD from moving are tyre punctures or getting yourself bogged in mud or sand - and these can happen in the simplest of situations, and for no real fault of the driver.
Suspension
There is an unfortunate but realistic fact about purchasing a new 4WD - it won't come fitted with a suspension system designed to carry the kind of load you'll pack for a serious outback trip. In this article we explain why it is important to consider fitting a new suspension system and what is involved.
Bull Bars, Rails & Steps
A vehicle's bull bar, sides steps and rails are known as its "bar work". Some critics might suggest that bar work is not necessary but for people actually using their vehicles for offroad touring, the bar work provides critical strength and protection and should therefore be considered as essentials.
Accessories
This topic contains detailed articles on the complete list of vehicle accessories and equipment on today's market - includes basic essentials for weekend camping and must-have gear for setting up a 4WD for serious offroad use.
Aftermarket Seats
Unfortunately, car manufacturers don't always expect us to actually take our vehicles offroad - so when it comes to fitting out your vehicle for a major trip you replace your suspension to improve the ride so ... why not replace your seats?
Winches
All travellers should be capable and equipped for winching so in this article we will discuss the various winching methods and equipment on the market. Written in conjunction with one of Australia's most noted experts in winch gear, we will also discuss some important safety issues along with providing some practical tips to suit everyone from traveller to competitor.
HF Radio
HF Radios are a wise consideration if you intend to travel throughout remote regions of Australia. In this article we discuss the usefulness of HF radio in practical situations and explain the many features and services available to enhance your use of the equipment including links to suppliers and manufacturers.
Long Range Fuel Tanks
A large number of outback treks involve long distances between fuel outlets. Jerry cans are dangerous, difficult to store and not as convenient as a long range fuel tank. Fitting a long range fuel tank is a common modification and there are many good manufacturers.
Driving Lights
If you plan to do any night driving in the outback then a strong reliable light source is a must. Bad weather, night driving and the possibility of stray animals all demand the need for a clear view of the road and the standard vehicle high beam is not enough.
Topics Index
Each Topic contains a range of detailed and useful articles on products, services and issues. This section is full of practical tips, ideas, photos and factual information. Each topic has links to relevant Manufacturers, Retailers and Operators that can be found in our Directory; plus links to relevant Posts in our Forum; and links to related Trader listings.
Water Tank
Water storage is a critical issue for all four wheel drivers. Not only do you need to carry large amounts of fresh water, you also need 2 alternate supplies in case of contamination from one source. We suggest a couple of small plastic jerry cans for backup but for the main supply, the best water carrying solution is a stainless steel water tank.
Roof Racks, Luggage Trays & Boxes
In this article we look at the pros and cons of using the roof of your vehicle for storage when travelling; discuss what not to carry on your roof; provide some helpful packing hints and finally some useful buying tips.
Bike Carriers
Using a recreational vehicle such as a 4WD is all about exploring places and enjoying yourself. Taking a push bike can provide you with the added advantage of exercise and exploring that little further in the nice open air.
HF Radio Installation
In this article, we discuss the procedures for installing a HF radio and the modifications that can be considered for a successful installation. We look at the different options and locations on the vehicle to mount the antenna base and provide some cabling and console tips to give that professional look.
Vehicle Shower
Water is the single most precious commodity you need to carry for your trip. Although heavy, we need to carry it for drinking, cooking and washing. When it comes to personal hygiene during remote travels, we often scrimp on the luxuries and make do with a quick wash of the arm pits and other spots. It's this sort of roughing it that puts off some travel partners, but there is a solution.
Cargo Drawers
This Article looks at gearing up for a 4WD camping trip and the need to find a sturdy, compact storage solution that won't rattle, break or allow loose items to fly around the cabin. We look at cargo drawers and list the features you should look for.
