Water crossings are one of the situations where the FJ Cruiser’s off-road capability can work against you if the engine is not protected. The stock air intake on the FJ sits low enough that a serious water crossing puts it at risk. A hydrolocked engine from water ingestion is not a repair it is typically a full engine replacement. A snorkel relocates the air intake to roof height, keeping it well above any water level you would realistically cross. On r/FJCruiser and fjcruiserforums snorkel threads, owners also mention the dust filtration benefit for desert and sandy terrain — the elevated intake pulls cleaner air than the stock low-mount position.
The ram effect is a real but minor benefit. At speed the elevated forward-facing intake creates slightly positive air pressure which can marginally improve airflow to the engine. It is not a performance upgrade in any meaningful sense but it does not hurt either. Safari by ARB is the brand that comes up most consistently in FJ Cruiser snorkel discussions. They have been making snorkels for the Australian 4×4 market for decades where serious water crossings are common, and the FJ Cruiser fitment is well documented. The thick UV resistant polyethylene construction holds up to trail abuse and sun exposure better than cheaper alternatives.
Installation requires cutting into the factory airbox and fender, which is the main reason owners hesitate. It is not reversible without some bodywork. Most owners who have done it report the installation taking a full day if you are careful and following the instructions properly.
ARB Safari – Toyota FJ Cruiser Snorkel Intake Kit
By installing this snorkel kit, you can relocate the air intake point of your engine from a low and vulnerable position to a source of clean and cool air. This helps to protect your engine from any potential damage and ensures that it receives a consistent flow of clean air for optimal performance.
ARB snorkel is needed for deepwater passages. Even if you do not plan on trips that involve water, you never know when floodwaters will cross over. Furthermore, they are essential for those that are in dusty conditions. The amount of dust that is passed through the airbox and filter will be greatly reduced.
The following materials and tools will be needed for installation:
- Drill
- Jigsaw
- Riveting gun + a couple of rivets for 4 mm
- 10 mm drill bit and 4 mm drill bit
- 13 mm spanner
- Polyurethane Sealant
- Anticorrosive primer
- Masking tape
- Water-based marker
- High flow air ducting and body
- UV stable
- Corrosion-resistant
- The air supply in excess of engine requirements
- Designed for water and dust sealing
- Designed to integrate seamlessly
- Constructed from premium quality polyethylene
- Perfect for convoy driving
- Keeps the engine dry
- CAD tested/lab tested
- Pre cleaner compatible on some models
- Maintains fresh air for your Toyota FJ Cruiser’s engine
- Reduces dust intake
- Easy to install
- Long process to install
Bottom Line
A snorkel is one of those upgrades that you do not think about until you need it, and by then it is too late. For FJ Cruiser owners who do water crossings or drive in dusty desert conditions regularly, it is a worthwhile investment in engine protection. ARB Safari is the obvious choice. The brand has decades of real world use in conditions far more demanding than most FJ owners will ever encounter, and the FJ Cruiser fitment is proven. It is not cheap and installation requires committing to cutting the fender, but owners who have done it consistently say they would do it again.
Video: How To Install ARB Safari Snorkel on Toyota FJ Cruiser
FAQs
What does a snorkel kit do?
A snorkel kit is for both land and water. In fact, many Toyota FJ Cruiser owners will find they use them more for land. They are extremely useful when conditions on land are dusty and dry. They are best known for their cold air intake.
What is the advantage of a snorkel?
There are several advantages to having a snorkel intake kit installed on your Toyota FJ Cruiser. First, there is less chance of watering getting into the engine when you are crossing higher waters. Second, you will be able to obtain cleaner, cooler, and fresher air with the use of a snorkel. And third, you can help to reduce the wear and tear on the engine by installing a Safari snorkel kit.
Do SUV snorkels help with dust?
Yes, snorkels do help with dust. Many SUV owners will install them for this purpose. Vortex filters can be installed with your snorkel to filter out large pieces of debris and dust. This will allow your engine to stay “healthier” for longer. Your engine’s filter will be cleaner and will run optimally.
Why do I need a snorkel for my Toyota FJ Cruiser?
A snorkel can be a useful accessory for a Toyota FJ Cruiser, particularly if you plan to drive in areas with deep water or high levels of dust. It can help to protect the engine and improve performance.
There are several reasons why you might need a snorkel for your Toyota FJ Cruiser:
- A snorkel can help to improve the performance of your FJ by providing a consistent flow of clean, dry air to the engine.
- If you plan to drive through deep water or flood-prone areas, a snorkel can help to protect your engine from water damage.
- If you drive on dirt roads or in areas with high levels of dust, a snorkel can help to protect your engine from dust and dirt particles that can clog the air filter.
- A snorkel can help to improve fuel efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
Also Read:
Best Shock Absorbers and Lift Kit
About the Author
Anton has owned a Toyota FJ Cruiser since 2015 and created FJCruiserHub in 2020 to help fellow owners find the right gear without the guesswork. Every review on this site is based on hands-on research and real-world experience with the FJ Cruiser. Learn more