When to Install a Snorkel on Your Jeep

When to Install a Snorkel on Your Jeep

Some of the most impressive videos of a Jeeps performance are when it is crossing a river or powering through shallow lake bed. Because Jeeps are so versatile (and easy to hose off), owners are constantly testing the boundaries of the legendary machine. Luckily, companies like Volant Intakes make it a little safer for your vehicles engine if you choose to cross streams or rivers. Volant makes a Jeeep-specific air intake called a Snorkel that fits to your engine’s intake manifold and allows the typical air flow (from the engine) bay to be reverted from the above the windshield.

Snorkels were originally designed when military vehicles (including Jeeps) needed to become more amphibious during tactical training.

2 into 1 exhaustBesides saving your engine, snorkels add to the rough “off-road” image of Jeeps.

What If I’m not Crossing a River?

A snorkel’s primary function is to allow dry, cool air into the engine.  In the event that the hood of your Jeep is submerged, the snorkel will keep the engine from pulling in any unwanted debris.

However, don’t think you need to be crossing a deep river or stream to see the benefits from a snorkel. Many enthusiasts report an increase in performance over the stock air intake set up. Similarly to the function of a cold air intake, a snorkel brings in cooler air into the engine can increasing horsepower and could increase the longevity of your vehicle. On dusty trails or off-roading in sand dunes, the high position of the snorkel helps to prevent road dirt and grime from being sucked into your engine.

Hydrolocking

The most serious risk with taking your Jeep into deep water is hydrolocking. Hydrolocking occurs when the intake system becomes completely submerged, and the engine sucks water in through the filter. Due to most manufactures vulnerable intake location (usually near one of the front fenders), hydrolocking can occur whenever the waterline comes close to the headlights.

4 into 1
Once a cylinder fills with water, the compression stroke “locks” the engine (because water does not compress) and the engine cannot spin freely. Repairs to a hydrolocked motor are costly and generally involve a full rebuild, which is much more expensive than a snorkel.

Deciding whether or not a snorkel is worth the investment is entirely up to the owner. Some Jeep owners never go beyond light off-roading where the benefits of a snorkel are never tested. But, if you think you might be one of those enthusiasts who enjoys testing the limits of where you can drive your Jeep, a snorkel might be your next modification. For more products and information on Jeeps check us out.

By: Sean Bowes
Posted on November 27th, 2013
There are no products available for your selected application. Please clear the filter or choose a new application.