INSTALLATION

MANUFACTURERS typically provide customers with step-by-step instructions on DIY fitment of snorkels, and those with plenty of experience handling tools can fit their snorkels in a couple of hours.

“Each Armax snorkel comes with comprehensive fitting instructions and can be installed by either a professional workshop or DIY,” said Jason Luxon. “Generally, fitting time is two to four hours depending on the model.”

However, as Adam Craze explained: “Cutting the hole in the side of your brandnew vehicle is not normally something someone wants to do, so it is probably better left to the professionals to install.”

So unless you know your way around sheetmetal and the front-end of a 4x4, we recommend dropping it off at a workshop.

“Ultimately it comes down to the customer’s ability, confidence and willingness in performing the task,” added Sherpa 4x4’s James David. “Many of our customers ask their local mechanic to fit the snorkel at their next vehicle service and this is usually a cost-effective avenue to having your snorkel installed by someone you already know and trust.”

Brad Cooper from TJM repeated this sentiment: “We always recommend professional fitment by a TJM distributor to ensure seamless and problem-free integration with your vehicle’s air intake system. If you would like to fit it yourself, all TJM Airtec snorkels come with a step by step installation guide.”

One of the most important things to remember during installation is to ensure all of the holes are treated for rust protection and all parts are fully sealed.

You will also have access to aftersales support from a company that won’t do a Harry Houdini on you tomorrow.”

This level of experience across all brands is a key reason why consumers should lean toward trusted manufacturers. “Airflow has been designing, manufacturing and selling roto-moulded products for the last 30 years,” Airflow’s sales manager, David Mellords, told us. “We have been selling snorkels nationally and internationally for 26 years, and manufacturing them for the past 23 years. During that time we have undertaken a comprehensive study program into mould design, mould making, manufacturing techniques using the latest in Computer Aided Design (CAD) and, where necessary, even using imitation technology.”

Safari’s Jason Luxon concurred: “Safari 4x4 Engineering are passionate about the ultimate in 4x4 engine protection and performance and has over 35 years’ experience.

“Our history in the market place has proven the durability and quality of our products. The high standard and attention to detail is unmatched anywhere in the world.”

It’s also important to remember that hours and hours of testing, research and development goes into a quality-made product before it’s attached to the front of a 4x4.

“Buying from a trusted brand ensures the research and development has been done to ensure there are no negative effects on your vehicle and the raw materials are of the highest quality,” said Ironman 4x4’s Adam Craze.