Posted on 10/31/2025

Rolling into water looks simple from the shore. In the middle of the crossing it becomes clear that depth, current, and hidden ruts can turn a casual splash into a recovery. Water fording is about preparation and technique more than bravery. With the right setup and a plan, you protect the engine, axles, and electronics while keeping the trail day fun instead of expensive. Why Hydrolock Destroys Engines Engines compress air, not water. If the intake ingests water, a piston can stop suddenly against an incompressible column. The result may be a bent connecting rod, cracked piston, or worse. Even a brief gulp can deform parts. Air filters that get soaked collapse and allow droplets to pass, so a crossing that seemed easy can still end the day. Keeping the intake high and the bow wave controlled are the two keys to avoiding hydrolock. What a Snorkel Can and Cannot Do A snorkel raises the intake point to windshield height. That reduces the chance of sp ... read more