How to Cross High Water
From your 4-wheel drive/SUVs Guide

High-water crossings can be tough at times. Here are some things to do to make it a little easier on you and your vehicle.

Difficulty Level: Hard    Time Required: depends on the water

1. First try to figure out how deep the water is.
2. Lock in your hubs if they are manual hubs.
3. Put vehicle into 4-wheel drive. Put it into low range if you have low range on the transfer case.
4. If you have determined the water is going to be higher then the hubs of your vehicle take the fan belt off if it is a manual fan or unhook the wires if it is an electric fan. (see tip 1)
5. Make sure the air intake for your air cleaner isn't going to enter the water. Move it if you have to. (see tip 2)
6. Cross water slowly!
7. After you are done with the water crossing replace all wires and/or belts.
8. If you relocated your air cleaner intake system put it back.
9. Once back at home either check/drain all your axles, the transfer case, and transmission and put new oil in. (see tip 3)
   

Tips:

1. Water is much stronger then one would think. It could force the fan through the radiator. This is the reason for step four.
2. The air intake for the air cleaner can suck water right into the motor if it is low and isn't moved. This is the reason for step five.
3. Water and oil do not mix at all. If water gets into your axles or transmission or transfer case or motor you bearings will be gone quick. This is the reason for step nine.

Related Information:

• High Water
• Maintain Your Rig
  

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