Are you an adventure enthusiast looking to take your 4x4 vehicle off the beaten path? A car snorkel is a must-have accessory for you. This guide by Radius Fabrications provides you with everything you need to know about car snorkels.

Introduction

If you love going off-road with your 4x4 vehicle, you know how crucial it is to have the right gear. From the suspension to the tires, everything needs to be top-notch. One accessory that often gets overlooked is the car snorkel. A car snorkel is a device that allows your vehicle to cross water without damaging the engine. It does this by relocating the air intake to a higher position. At Radius Fabrications, we specialize in manufacturing and supplying high-quality car snorkels. Our snorkels are designed to suit a range of 4x4 vehicles, and we have options available for popular makes and models like Toyota, Ford, and Nissan. In this guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know about car snorkels, including their benefits, types, and how to choose the right one for your vehicle.

What is a Car Snorkel?

A car snorkel is a device that extends the air intake of your engine to a higher position, allowing it to cross deep water without flooding the engine. When water enters your engine's air intake, it can cause the engine to hydrolock, which can lead to severe engine damage. A snorkel works by relocating the air intake to a position above the water level. This means that even if you're driving through deep water, the engine can still get air and run smoothly. Snorkels are commonly used in off-road vehicles, especially those used for water crossings.

Benefits of a Car Snorkel

There are several benefits of having a car snorkel installed in your 4x4 vehicle, including:

Protects your engine

As mentioned earlier, a car snorkel protects your engine from water damage. By relocating the air intake to a higher position, it prevents water from entering the engine's intake system. This can save you from costly engine repairs or replacements.

Allows you to cross deeper water

With a car snorkel, you can safely cross deeper water than you would be able to without one. This is because the air intake is positioned higher, allowing your vehicle to drive through water that would otherwise flood the engine.

Improves engine performance

A car snorkel not only protects your engine but also improves its performance. By relocating the air intake to a higher position, it allows the engine to get cooler and cleaner air. This can lead to improved engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Types of Car Snorkels

There are several types of car snorkels available in the market. Let's take a look at the most common types:

Traditional Snorkels

Traditional snorkels are the most common type of snorkel. They're made of durable plastic and are designed to fit most 4x4 vehicles. Traditional snorkels are typically installed on the driver's side of the vehicle, and the air intake is positioned on the A-pillar.

Raised Air Intake Snorkels

Raised air intake snorkels are designed for vehicles that have a high clearance. These snorkels are installed directly onto the airbox, and the air intake is positioned above the roofline. Raised air intake snorkels are ideal for vehicles with a higher suspension lift or larger tires, as they provide additional clearance for the snorkel.

Ram Snorkels

Ram snorkels are a variation of traditional snorkels that have a scoop or ram head on the top of the snorkel. This design is meant to increase the amount of air entering the engine, which can improve engine performance. Ram snorkels are commonly used in high-performance vehicles and off-road racing.

Choosing the Right Car Snorkel

When choosing a car snorkel, there are several factors to consider:

Vehicle make and model

The snorkel you choose must be compatible with your vehicle's make and model. At Radius Fabrications, we have snorkels available for a range of popular 4x4 vehicles.

Driving conditions

Consider the driving conditions you'll be using your vehicle in. If you frequently cross water or drive in dusty environments, you'll need a snorkel that can withstand these conditions.

Budget

Car snorkels are available at various price points. Consider your budget when choosing a snorkel, but also keep in mind that a higher-priced snorkel may offer better quality and durability.

Installation

Installing a car snorkel requires some mechanical knowledge and experience. It's recommended that you have a professional install the snorkel for you. At Radius Fabrications, we offer installation services for our snorkels. Our team of experienced mechanics can install your snorkel quickly and efficiently, ensuring that it's done correctly.

Conclusion

A car snorkel is an essential accessory for any 4x4 vehicle that frequently crosses water or drives in dusty environments. It protects your engine from damage, allows you to cross deeper water, and can improve engine performance. At Radius Fabrications, we have a range of high-quality car snorkels available for popular 4x4 makes and models. Contact us today to find out more about our snorkels and installation services. Visit our website at https://radiusfabrications.com.au/ to browse our range of car snorkels and other off-road accessories.