What is the function of a vehicle snorkel?
1 Answers
The function of a vehicle snorkel is to increase the vehicle's wading depth, assist the engine in operation, and enhance the engine's power output. Wading is just a secondary effect of the snorkel. Typically, the air intake opening of a vehicle's engine is located near the engine. If the intake opening is below the water level during wading, water can be sucked into the engine, causing severe damage. Installing a snorkel significantly raises the position of the engine's air intake, ensuring that the engine does not ingest water while wading. If the engine stalls during wading, do not attempt to restart it immediately. Restarting the engine under such conditions may lead to bent connecting rods or even cylinder block damage, severely harming the engine. When the engine's air intake is submerged in water, the engine will stall due to the inability to draw in air. Submerging the exhaust pipe is not an issue as long as the engine is running, as water cannot enter the exhaust pipe. As long as exhaust gases continue to flow out, water will not enter. Before driving through water, it is advisable to exit the vehicle and check the water depth to avoid blindly proceeding. If you frequently drive off-road or through water, installing a snorkel is recommended to increase the vehicle's wading capability.