In this first article, we will examine the correct driving techniques required for crossing water in your vehicle. Most drivers skill levels are compromised by their lack of actual 4x4 experience and this is reflected in the ever present level of fear when going off-road. Fear of damaging the vehicle, fear of getting stuck and fear of getting lost.
Water is incompressible in an engine cylinder.
So if water should ever enter your air intake, the results can be spectacularly expensive, to say the least. Remember, petrol engines that have ingested water will stall in most cases, before damage occurs. In cases such as this, do not attempt to restart the vehicle. It is therefore imperative to check the depth of water properly, before attempting to cross it. This rule also applies to fast-flowing rivers which are impossible to safely walk across.