snorkel
4Rescue,
see that's the problem with generalizations - you might be right in general, but you did not include important exceptions. But in order to get a point across, you have to start out with a generalization
So, I am definitely with you - there are environments that do call for shovels, HiLift etc.
Re snorkels: air is densest and (in general, with exceptions) cooler close to the ground. That's why most car manufacturers place the engine air intake around or below the headlights. Dense, cool air produces more torque and HP - very importantly it makes for good mpg.
Guys that are in need for clean air (off-road racing) and can't have a stove pipe sticking out of the body (it would not survive long), usually suck air from the cabin.
That creates a higher noise level but guarantees clean and dry air.
For you guys still dreaming of crossing lakes with the water level about mid window: you'll definitely need a snorkel. Not environmentally sound to drive through deep water, but if you have to, a snorkel can save your engine.
With sufficiently large tires and the resulting high stance, snorkels are not needed for most water crossings - provided that you drive as slow as possible. The "bow wave" nonsense has killed too many engines to continue that doomed approach to water anyway.
Its time to find an easy method to calculate the flow rate of water (water depth is only part of the story) and establish a point at which driving is unsafe - does anyone have a good formula?
I have seen vehicles being swept down river with the water barely above the hub when the flow rate was very high.
