Besides providing your rig with an improved aesthetic, the benefits of 4x4 snorkels can include improved performance, fuel efficiency and reduced wear and tear on your engine and other parts. Many people wonder how a snorkel does all of this, and what the purpose behind it is. The answers to these questions are pretty simple - the elevated position of snorkels allows your 4x4 to get cleaner and cooler air, that's free of contaminants that are the result of off-roading or passing water surfaces. Changing the position fo the engine's air intake from under your bonnet to above your roof protects from water going inside the engine, and dust from getting in. Let's get into more detail.
Benefits of 4x4 Snorkels
Improved Engine Performance and Efficiency
No matter whether you're driving your 4x4 on or off the road, a car snorkel can improve your engine's efficiency, simply by drawing cooler, cleaner, contaminant-free air. This is all possible due to its elevated position. The air that's generally taken around the engine bay is hot, and contains particles of dust, dirt and grease. As a result, you get more power and performance when you need it most.
Preventing Engine Clogging
Just like we use PPE to protect ourselves from inhaling toxic fumes and dust when working, combustion engines also need something to protect themselves from dust. The combustion engine works by combining an ideal ratio of oxygen and fuel, and any contaminants can greatly reduce its lifespan. As a result, snorkels also benefit your 4x4 by reducing wear and tear, thus, reducing maintenance needs.
Improved Fuel Efficiency
Since snorkels help prevent water, dust and other contaminants from going into your engine, you get cleaner air that's oxygen-rich. Oxygen-rich air means your engine is able to burn fuel more efficiently, thus improving your vehicle's fuel consumption. This can be a great benefit for people touring the Australian outback, as they'll need every litre they can get out of their fuel tank.
Types of Snorkels
Ram Snorkels
When your vehicle is idle, the air is sucked into the engine as usual. The air filters clean the moisture and dust out of the air. As you start moving forward, though, the air is rammed down through the snorkel's scoop. The heavier moisture and dust particles are forced against the back of the 4x4 snorkel head and are released through drain holes located at the bottom of the snorkel head. Moistureless, clean air is rammed into the air intake instead, and additional cleansing of the air is performed by the air filters of the engine.
Vortex Snorkels
In the case of vortex snorkels, the air is sucked through a series of blades located below the snorkel head. The blades force air to rotate around the head, and centrifugal force filters the particles aside where they're collected in a bowl. The moistureless, clean air is drawn inside the snorkel and down the engine.
How Much Do Snorkels Cost?
Some people think that snorkels are simple plastic pipes, which can't be further from the truth. Snorkel manufacturers have spent a lot of time and money engineering snorkels designed for specific vehicle's engine, makes and engine sizes. This is important in order for your 4x4 to meet its airflow requirements. As a result, quality 4x4 snorkels can cost up to several hundred dollars. And while I'm all for smart saving, it's important to not skimp a snorkel. In other words, don't buy a universal, all-model snorkel for your 4x4.
In terms of fitting costs, it depends on where you're located. I've been looking online at different tuning shops and most people charge anywhere between $200-400. If you think you can do it yourself, however, it won't cost more than $50, as long as you have some basic tools and are capable of following the instructions provided. This is important because you'll have to do some cutting, and once you start you can't go back.
The Final Word
Snorkels are one of those underrated 4x4 accessories that can provide lots of value. Not only does it improve vehicle performance, but it also prolongs engine lifespan, and improves fuel efficiency. They're quite affordable, and are deemed necessary if your route includes passing through water passages or driving on dusty terrain. There are two types of snorkels, and they do the same thing, just in a different way. It's important to make sure you get a snorkel that's made for your specific vehicle model, make and engine size, to ensure your engine gets the amount of oxygen it needs to burn fuel efficiently.
Buy from reputable manufacturers who have spent the time of day perfecting their snorkel's design. Reputable manufacturers also offer a warranty on their products, giving you peace of mind knowing that they stand behind their quality, and that if something goes wrong, you'll get reimbursed. Having your snorkel fitted professionally is also important, and it's not a task for someone who isn't handy with tools, or savvy with cars.auto
