How to Make a Snorkel for an Automatic ATV

ATVs have been a popular mode of personal, off-road transportation since the early 1970s. While these vehicles are resilient throughout many types of terrain, water often challenges riders. Once a vehicle reaches a certain depth, the air filter and engine become flooded, thus seizing the engine and rendering it useless. However, an aftermarket snorkel allows the motor's filtration system to breathe in deeper waters. If you would like to create your own ATV snorkel, use a 1.5" PVC pipe to get the job done. Riders must still be aware of casualties that may occur during extraordinary use in water.

Things You'll Need

  • Adjustable wrench
  • New air filter
  • Silicone sealant
  • 1.5" PVC Pipe
  • PVC elbow extension
  • Plastic ties
  • Spa Hose (at least 5 feet)
  • Fastener kits
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the seat of your ATV to access the air filter box. Remove the factory snorkel that attaches to the hole outside this air box. Use the adjustable wrench to remove any bolts and fasteners that may hold this box together, as different ATVs feature different setups. Likewise, you may also need to remove fairing bolts to access the entire stock snorkel.

    • 2

      Unfasten the air box and lift the top cover away from the engine. Change the air filter inside your ATV if it appears dirty or clogged in any way. A healthy, clean filter helps improve the air flow throughout your engine. Additionally, seal the drain hole at the bottom of your air filter box with silicone.

    • 3

      Attach the PVC elbow joint to one end of your 1.5" PVC pipe. Mount the PVC vertically to the front of your ATV, securing to the brush guard with the plastic fasteners. If necessary, you may need to use up to three equally-spaced fasteners in order to properly attach this new snorkel to your vehicle.

    • 4

      Fit the spa hose to the factory snorkel hole of your ATV's filter box. With the front fairing still removed, attach this spa hose to the bottom of your newly-attached snorkel. This allows the air to properly travel from the top of your snorkel down into the vehicle's air box. Secure the tube to the PVC pipe with duct tape for stability and leak prevention.

    • 5

      Reattach the air filter box cover and any fairings that were removed for installation. If the fairing does not allow the spa hose to exit and connect to the PVC pipe, cut a hole with a drill to thread this hose through properly. Slide the seat back into place and snap until fitted. Test drive your new snorkel and make sure your ATV breathes normally.