You have to admit, a Ford Ranger snorkel makes an already cool vehicle even cooler. Add to this the benefits of installing one, such as improved fuel efficiency, cleaner air intake, and water protection, and you might be considering having one installed on your 4×4. But is it really worth switching to a raised air intake?
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Road Conditions Frequently Travelled
While a snorkel does have its benefits, it’s not always practical if you’re never going to drive your vehicle off-road.
- Water crossings: Protecting your engine while driving through water is one of the most obvious benefits of a snorkel. If you are not driving regularly through deep water, this aftermarket upgrade is more aesthetic than practical.
- When you do cross bodies of water or intend to, consider a vehicle’s rated wading depth. Just like you would check essential features of a large family vehicle when shopping for one, wading depth seriously matters.
- Different vehicles have different rated wading depths, and even with the addition of a raised air intake, water damage can still happen if your 4×4 is not rated to wade in water higher than its doors.
- Dusty roads: Two other benefits of a snorkel are cleaner air intake and increased airflow, something you need if you are driving through desert and dusty terrain. Preventing dust from entering the air intake system protects your vehicle from poor performance and engine misfiring.
Availability
- Check if there’s a ready-made system available for your car to ensure the best fit.
- Have one custom-made if there’s none. Take into consideration the costs and labour involved to assemble one for you.
- Make sure a snorkel fits snuggly to your vehicle’s body work, and is equipped with gaskets and seals for leak prevention.
Quality
Snorkels are made of different materials such as PVC, linear low-density polyethylene, mild steel, and stainless steel.
- Considering the purpose of a raised air intake, avoid low-quality products. Cheaper items may look legit, but are made of subpar plastic that is less resistant to UV damage and even the slightest impact.
- Opt for steel-made or heavy-duty plastic-made snorkels as these materials can withstand rough off-road driving
- Go for original snorkels that are designed specifically for your engine’s capacity and breathing needs.
System Options
There are two types of snorkel heads available: Ram head and vortex or cyclone head.
- A ram-style snorkel directs incoming air with enough force to push out water and other contaminants, which are then released through small vent openings.
- Ram snorkel heads either face forward or backward.
- A vortex head separates air from contaminants using a centrifugal force, making it more suited for harsher road conditions.
- Unlike a ram head type, however, a vortex head doesn’t expel contaminants automatically but collects them in a designated receptacle.
Installation
The only way to install a snorkel is to cut holes into the bodywork of your vehicle, which is better left to the professionals.
- Special tools and materials are needed for the installation, something professional installers are already equipped with.
- Proper sealant is necessary on all joints and gaskets to prevent leaks.
- Make sure to check for water leaks and ingestion after installation so any problems are fixed right away.
Use the guide to help you decide whether to have a snorkel installed. Take your Ford Ranger further with safe and powerful upgrades developed by Torqit, leaders in 4WD performance.
