Safe wading with LR4 with snorkel

[Sharley]

Hi,

I have a 2012 Disco 4 and fitted snorkel. What is a safe depth to wade before electronics gets wet?
I don't plan on swimming, but would like to have an idea what I can before I have other problems.

In addition to fitting a snorkel, what else should I do/check on the Disco before venturing into any water. I am going to Botswana and cannot afford a breakdown in the middle of the bush.

Any suggestions or spare parts I should take along with me is also more than welcome - please!

Thanks.

[jelo]

I think the D4 is rated for 700mm, snorkel or no snorkel?

[Partyranger]

Be very careful with a false sense of security with a snorkel.

99% of the times a snorkel has not been installed waterproof.
Stick a plastic bag over the top and start the engine. The engine should just about die due to lack of oxygen. If you can still rev the engine then your snorkel system has serious leaks and is not waterproof.

Also so check all the diff, gearbox and transfer case breather pipes. Extend them to higher positions like top of the engine bay by the firewall or even higher if you wish.

The biggest problem with wading is the ECU's and other electronics. If you do have to cross make sure you walk te crossing and choose the best route.
Most of the time you will be ok with just crossing and pushing wake, the problem comes in when you get stuck and end up standing in the water.

[Aquiva]

Yes, a snorkel is really only good for clean air in a dusty driving environment, since all your diff breathers, electronics etc. are still in their designed locations. Also the shape of the front-end makes a wake when going through water, so even if the water just goes over the bonnet, the original air intakes (on the side) are not submerged as long as you keep going. Essentially yes, the air intakes on the side determine the wading depth.

[peter bee]

i think the lowest dangerous thing is the computer that sits under the front seat, i got that wet in my d3 and it caused problems, still went but had to be jump started the one behind the battery went after that and that burnt out and had to be replaced,