Sad days. Summer’s gone. Autumn’s upon us. A whole different set of challenges are ahead. Staying inside, though, is unlikely. That means it’s a good time to pay attention to water and its effect on a 4WD.
Driving through deep water can great fun, as long as the vehicle is properly prepped. Without such provisions, an encounter with deep water could lead to damage.
Replace axle seals. They live in damp, damaging environment and do a crucial job of keeping water out.
Look for a seal with decent internal O-ring grooves to ensure a watertight fit. The seals are highly pliable and can work with different axleshaft diameters.
There are waterproof drivetrain U-joints for those who don’t want to deal with the hassle of re-greasing after each dip in the pond. These joints are not affected by water and are claimed to last much longer than OE units. They also come equipped with special waterproof grease that is rated for extreme pressure and high temperature.
Breathe deeply. No, get those axles and diffs doing the breathing.Replace stock breathers with tubes that go up through the vehicle, higher than water might travel.
Electrical components are the most difficult items to waterproof. Relays in particular are items that don’t usually fare well in the wet. A trick waterproof power distribution pack comprised of six relay-controlled circuits unit mounts under the hood of any vehicle and simplifies the task of hooking up aftermarket electrical accessories. It can use either sealed waterproof relays or standard-type relays and features fuse protection for each circuit.
A mini grease gun is an excellent first line of defence. Do grease maintenance before and after each drive ride, especially if water crossings occur. Frequent grease maintenance prolongs the life of friction surfaces.
Snorkels are commonplace on 4WDs and for good reason. They raise the engine air intake right up to the roof line.
Some vehicles come equipped with a vented gas cap, oil fill cap, or power-steering cap. These will usually always allow water in where you don’t want it. It’s a good idea to take a look at these caps and seal them up if necessary.
