Snorkel for LC80-1HD FT

My opinions and based on the fact that I have one fitted are as follows:

1. Increased noise is almost un-noticable and I normally drive with my windows down.

2. I chose Safari because I liked the design and it was priced right.

3. In three years of it being fitted I haven't noticed any more dust etc.

4. I haven't noticed any difference with the economy one way or the other; however, I was advised that it would be a benifit when I had my turbo fitted.

I haven't done any water crossings where I have sunk the bonnet yet (and I don't wish too), but it looks good fitted.
Everyone is entitled to have an opinion - just make sure that yours is correct.

Hi Wil

I've decided not to go for the snorkel option.

My view is that if it's deep enough to need a snorkel, it's too deep to be doing it anyway. Mind you, mine's a petrol 80 series and therefore depth is limited by splash from fan onto electrics more than anything else.

If yours is a diesel (don't know whether that;s indicated by 1HD FT), then I'd say a snorkel is a must as water + diesel engine = lots of money for repair. It will also expand your options though, as I understand diesel engines can be almost submerged as long well waterproofed etc.

Just don't forget to do the diff breathers if they're not already done. Very easy and cheap, and the first requirement.

Wil,

We have a 97 1HD-FT, with a Safari snorkel, and in the couple of years that its been fitted haven't noticed any change to:
Noise - no noiser I don't think, but we drive with windows up, as too bloody hot up here to have them down.
Economy - Can't say that it has improved, but certainly hasn't got worse. A trip to NT, in Oct '03, saw fuel figures from 12L/100 to 15/100, sitting on 110-120 clicks.
Dust - will be less in any slower work, because of height above ground. At speed, it should same or less than standard. We don't make it a habit of following too close to other vehicles, unless you're trying to pass a road train.

The only point I can see in favour of the Airtek, is that it sits closer to body at the top. The Safari could get the ram knocked off by enthusiastic driving in scrubby country, because of the way the ram is away from the A pillar.

It doesn't take much depth of water to get it to cover the headlights, when fording, at even a sedate pace, and that's where the standard intake is. A $350 snorkel is cheap insurance!

Hooroo...

Hi Will
I wouldnt hesitate with a diesel, think of it as cheap insurance, you wont be using more fuel like a petrol might, and you will be drawing cleaner and cooler air from the roofline.
The new Safari snorkels for the 80 are majik aswell.
Andrew
94 fzj80 petrol.wheredayathinkwer mike?

I have had my snorkle (Safari) for about 5 years. The only probs i have had with it is that at around 2200 rpm's it can vibrate - tweek the screws and no probs.
Fuel economy is the same, makes water crossings stress free (relative), no more noise other then what i have already said.
Great addition to your 4WD
Troy

Gday
Unless things have changed, the Safari top brace uses the plastic doovers that push through a drilled hole and are secured by the self tapper that screws into its centre.
There seems to be no rust problems associated with this setup, nor the body securing setup along the guard. I would ask the fitter to put some stickerflex around the guard mounting studs, (supplying it for them if it is not a std proceedure)
The safari has a larger diameter tubing to the air cleaner aswell, compared to the airtech, so i would stick with that brand (i have one aswell, so i may be biased)
What really sticks out is your comment about selling it later, i must admit, when it comes to resale, a snorkel can put some off, and make others keener to purchase, depending on what they want out of the cruiser, so, it is up to you....ask yourself, if u come accross deep water on your trip, and you have the snorkel on, but are with noone else, will you proceed or turn back???
Andrew wheredayathinkwer mike?