In some instances, you find it difficult to understand various automotive terminology used in articles or documentation. This week, we update you on the definitions of snorkel, wading depth, wheelbase, and front and rear overhang.
Snorkel
In automotive terminology, a snorkel is a raised air intake system, probably made of plastic. On many off-road cars, like some Land Cruiser 79 Series models here in Kenya, it is located on the right side. It isn’t there for decoration or aesthetics but helps the engine get fresh air from above when a vehicle is submerged in water or moving on dusty trails.
Wading Depth
If your vehicle is indicated to have a wading depth of 700 mm, it means that it can go through a body of water with a depth of up to 700 mm. In simple terms, wading depth is the deepest level of water a vehicle can safely drive through without water entering critical systems like the engine, electronics, or air intake.
Wheelbase
Wheelbase is the horizontal measurement taken between the front wheels and the rear wheels of a vehicle. For vehicles with two or more axles, like large trucks or buses, the wheelbase measurement is typically taken from the front steering axle to the midpoint of the rear drive axle group.
Front and Rear Overhang
The front overhang is the horizontal portion of a vehicle that extends beyond its front wheels, or the length of a vehicle that extends beyond the wheelbase at the front. The rear overhang is similar to the front overhang but refers to the part that extends beyond the rear wheels.
