If you drive a 4WD, such as a Suzuki Jimny, you may need to fit a Jimny snorkel, to help your vehicle handle tough terrains and conditions. It’s a practical accessory that lets your engine breathe cooler and cleaner air.
What’s a vehicle snorkel and how does it work?
Also known as a raised air intake, a car snorkel is an off-roader’s best friend, practically helping your vehicle breathe as it wades through water.
- Air moves from the roof of the vehicle down to the engine bay’s airbox to complete the fuel combustion cycle
- Even when a vehicle moves through water, air can still reach the engine. Air taken in is usually relatively cleaner as it’s less polluted than air closer to the ground
- The snorkel’s ram effect further removes heavy dust particles that may cause problem as the enter through small vents
When do you need a vehicle snorkel?
- Frequent water crossings: A snorkel is designed to prevent water damage on electrical and mechanical components. Its efficiency and benefits, however, will depend on a vehicle’s rated waiting depth. An Isuzu D-Max, for example, has a rated wedding depth of 500 mm. Even if fitted with a snorkel, damage can still happen if the water level goes up over its doors.
- Off-road or outback driving: Dirt roads spew dust and pollution like there’s no tomorrow. Driving over long stretches of said road would mean your car’s intake pulls more polluted air than cleaner ones.
- Driving at the beach or during hot weather: Remember pulling in cleaner and cooler air from up top? That’s exactly what a snorkel does, preventing sand and hot air from going into your engine.
What are the different types of snorkels?
Similar to how you must use the right tyres for your vehicle, you also need to have the right snorkel installed. There are several types available.
- Plastic Snorkels: Featuring a factory-style fit, this snorkel follows a vehicle’s body line, and is built with UV protection and impact-resistance.
- Stainless Steel Snorkels: Known for their premium construction, such snorkels are corrosion resistant and have a high-flow design to suit higher airflow demand. They can be custom-styled and boast of extreme rigidity.
- Forward-Facing vs. Rearward-Facing Heads: With the head facing forward, there’s an increase in airflow and intake pressure but also likely to scoop in rain and debris. A snorkel head facing rearward, on the other hand, has indirect airflow but can better deflect snow and rain. Check if you can have a rotating head installed instead.
Which snorkel suits your vehicle best?
- Check if there’s a snorkel available or designed for your specific car model
- Choose durability and longevity in the choice of materials. Stainless steel is corrosion resistant but UV-stable polyethylene can handle extreme heat
Make the most of your 4WD with a car snorkel fitted to it, especially if you plan to cross rivers or tour the outback. By protecting your engine from water, dust, and heat, you get to enjoy many more adventures with your vehicle. If you’re looking for a stainless steel raised air intake for a Suzuki Jimny, Torqit is the provider to call.