Snorkeling Can Am Outlander - Your Ultimate DIY Guide To Deep Water

You see it up ahead: that long, deep, mud-bottomed water crossing that separates you from the best part of the trail. You hesitate, picturing the worst—a stalled engine, a hydrolocked motor, and a very long walk back. We’ve all been there, feeling that pit in our stomach when the water looks just a little too deep for comfort.

But what if you could trade that hesitation for confidence? What if you could look at that obstacle as just another part of the adventure? That’s exactly what this guide promises to deliver. We’re going to walk you through everything you need to know about snorkeling can am outlander models, from why it’s a game-changer to a detailed, step-by-step installation process.

Get ready to learn the right way to waterproof your machine, the common problems to avoid, and the best practices that separate a pro install from a costly mistake. Let’s dive in.

What is Snorkeling a Can-Am Outlander and Why Bother?

At its core, snorkeling an ATV is just like the snorkel a person uses in the water. It’s all about breathing. Your Outlander’s engine and CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) need a constant supply of clean, dry air to function.

A snorkel kit is essentially a set of extended, waterproof pipes that raise the critical air intakes up high, usually to the level of your handlebars or gauge pod. This allows your machine to breathe clean air even when the engine and transmission are completely submerged in water.

The Core Benefits of Snorkeling Can Am Outlander

So, why go through the trouble of cutting into your pristine plastics? The advantages are huge for any serious trail rider. Here are the main benefits of snorkeling can am outlander ATVs:

Waterproof Your Drivetrain: This is the number one reason. A properly installed snorkel kit protects your engine from hydrolocking (sucking in water, causing catastrophic failure) and keeps water out of your CVT, preventing belt slippage and damage.
Conquer Deeper Crossings: It unlocks a whole new level of terrain. Those intimidating mud holes and creek crossings become manageable challenges instead of impassable roadblocks.
Get Cleaner Air: Even in dry, dusty conditions, a snorkel helps. By raising the air intake, you pull in air from above the dust clouds kicked up by your tires, leading to a cleaner air filter and better engine performance.
Gain Peace of Mind: There’s immense value in knowing your machine is prepared for whatever the trail throws at you. You can ride with confidence, focusing on the fun instead of worrying about every puddle.

Is a Snorkel Kit Right for Your Riding Style?

While a snorkel is a fantastic mod, it’s not for everyone. If you primarily ride on dry, groomed trails or open desert, the investment might be overkill. But if your rides regularly involve mud, swamps, or unpredictable water crossings, a snorkel kit isn’t just a modification—it’s essential insurance for your machine.

Gearing Up: Tools and Parts for Your Snorkel Project

Before you start tearing into your Outlander, you need to have the right gear on hand. A successful installation depends on proper preparation. This is a project where taking shortcuts will come back to bite you—or, more accurately, flood you.

Choosing the Right Snorkel Kit

You have two main options: a pre-fabricated kit or a full DIY build. For most people, a kit is the way to go. Companies like SYA (Snorkel Your ATV) make high-quality, model-specific kits that come with everything you need, including pre-cut pipes and detailed instructions.

If you go the DIY route using PVC or ABS pipe from a hardware store, you’ll save some money, but you’ll spend a lot more time on fabrication and fitting. For a first-timer, a pre-made kit is highly recommended for a cleaner, more reliable result.

Essential Tools for the Job

Gather these before you start. There’s nothing worse than having to stop mid-project for a run to the auto parts store.

A good socket and wrench set (metric)
Plastic trim removal tools (to avoid scratching your plastics)

*A power drill and a set of hole saws (check your kit for the required sizes)

High-quality, 100% RTV silicone sealant (marine-grade is best)
PVC primer and cement (if your kit requires it)
Heavy-duty zip ties or clamps
A utility knife or pipe cutter

How to Snorkel a Can-Am Outlander: The Step-by-Step Guide

This is where the real work begins. This snorkeling can am outlander guide will walk you through the general process. Remember to always follow the specific instructions that come with your chosen kit, as steps can vary between models and years.

Safety First: Before you do anything, disconnect the negative terminal on your battery. Work in a well-lit, well-ventilated space. And remember the golden rule: measure twice, cut once.

Disassembly – Gaining Access
You need to get to the airbox and CVT housing. This typically involves removing the seat, front rack, and the plastic body panels around the fuel tank and gauge pod. Take your time and use trim removal tools to avoid breaking any plastic clips.
Locate Your Intakes and Vents
On your Outlander, you need to identify three main connections: the engine air intake (leading to the airbox), the CVT air intake, and the CVT exhaust. You’ll also need to find the smaller vent lines for your front/rear differentials, fuel tank, and coolant overflow.
Cutting and Fitting
This is the most nerve-wracking part. You’ll need to drill holes in your plastic pod or radiator cover for the snorkel risers to pass through. Use the templates provided with your kit. Start with a small pilot hole, then use the correct size hole saw for a clean, professional-looking cut.
Routing the Tubing
This is one of the most important snorkeling can am outlander best practices. Route the flexible tubing from the engine and CVT connections up toward the holes you just cut. Ensure the pipes have smooth, gradual bends. Avoid sharp kinks that restrict airflow, and keep the pipes as far away from the hot engine and exhaust components as possible.
Sealing Everything Like Your Engine Depends On It
Because it does. Every single connection must be 100% airtight and waterproof. Apply a generous bead of RTV silicone sealant to every joint: where the snorkel tubes connect to the airbox, the CVT covers, and where they connect to the risers. Also, take this opportunity to put sealant on your airbox lid to ensure it’s fully sealed.
Extending Vent Lines
Don’t forget this crucial step! Your differentials and other components have small vent lines to equalize pressure. If these go underwater, they’ll suck in water instead of air. Extend these small hoses using connectors and run them up as high as your snorkel risers, securing them with zip ties.
Reassembly and Final Checks
Once the sealant has cured (check the instructions, usually 24 hours), you can reassemble your ATV. Before you hit the water, perform a leak test. A great tip is to temporarily block the snorkel risers and use a shop vac on its “blow” setting connected to the airbox drain. Spray soapy water on all your connections and look for bubbles, which indicate a leak.

Common Problems with Snorkeling Can Am Outlander (And How to Avoid Them)

Even with a careful installation, issues can arise. Knowing the common problems with snorkeling can am outlander setups can help you troubleshoot quickly or avoid them altogether.

The Dreaded Leaks: Pinpointing and Fixing

A leak is your worst enemy. If you suspect a leak after a ride (e.g., a wet air filter or slipping belt), you must find and fix it immediately. Use the shop-vac-and-soapy-water trick mentioned above to pinpoint the exact location and re-apply sealant.

Performance Issues: Bogging or Sputtering

Adding several feet of intake tubing can sometimes change the air-to-fuel ratio, causing the engine to run lean. If your Outlander sputters or bogs down after installing the snorkel, you may need an EFI fuel programmer (like a Power Commander or DynoJet) to adjust the fuel map and compensate for the change in airflow.

Melted Pipes and Overheating

This is a direct result of poor routing. If a snorkel pipe is touching or is too close to the exhaust header, it will melt, creating a massive leak. During installation, ensure you have at least a few inches of clearance. If space is tight, use a high-quality heat shield wrap on that section of pipe.

The FatBoysOffroad Approach: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Snorkeling Practices

Thinking about sustainable snorkeling can am outlander practices might seem odd, but it’s really about responsible off-roading. A snorkel enables you to go new places, and with that ability comes responsibility.

Minimizing Your Wake and Trail Impact

Just because you can plow through a water crossing at full speed doesn’t mean you should. Enter water slowly to minimize your wake, which helps prevent bank erosion. Stick to established trails and crossings to protect sensitive ecosystems.

Preventing Fluid Leaks into Waterways

An eco-friendly approach is rooted in a quality installation. A perfectly sealed system prevents your engine from failing and potentially spilling oil or coolant into a stream. A well-maintained, waterproofed machine is a machine that doesn’t pollute the environments we love to ride in.

Snorkeling Can Am Outlander Care Guide: Post-Ride Maintenance

Your snorkel system needs regular checks, especially after a rough or wet ride. This simple snorkeling can am outlander care guide will keep your setup reliable for years.

Inspect Connections: After every ride, give your risers and tubing a quick visual inspection. Look for cracks, loose clamps, or signs of melting.
Check Your Air Filter: Your air filter is your last line of defense. Check it frequently. If you see any signs of water or mud past the filter, you have a leak that needs immediate attention.
Check Your Fluids: Make it a habit to check your engine oil and front/rear differential fluids after deep water rides. If the oil looks milky or like a chocolate milkshake, it’s contaminated with water and must be changed immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions About Snorkeling a Can-Am Outlander

Does snorkeling my Outlander void the warranty?

For any part you modify, almost certainly yes. If you snorkel your machine and then have an engine or transmission failure, the dealer will very likely deny the warranty claim. It’s a risk you take for the added capability.

Can I still use my rack space with a snorkel kit?

It depends on the kit. Most modern kits are designed with this in mind, using slim risers that are routed to the side of the gauge pod to minimize interference with front rack space and accessories.

How deep can I go after installing a snorkel kit?

Technically, your limit is the lowest point of your snorkel risers. However, remember that your electronics (like the gauge cluster and headlights) are not fully waterproof. Your safe limit is generally considered to be the bottom of the seat or racks. And never go deeper than you’re comfortable with—your safety is paramount.

Do I need to re-jet or tune my EFI after snorkeling?

Often, yes. As mentioned earlier, the longer intake path can lean out the air/fuel mixture. While some machines handle it fine, many benefit from an EFI controller to optimize performance and prevent engine damage from a lean condition. If it runs poorly after the install, a tuner should be your next step.

Installing a snorkel on your Can-Am Outlander is one of the most empowering modifications you can make. It transforms your machine from a trail-rider to an all-terrain conqueror. The key is to take your time, use quality parts, and be absolutely meticulous about sealing every connection.

Follow the steps, respect the trail, and perform your post-ride checks. Now get out there, ride smart, and conquer those water crossings with the confidence you’ve earned. The trail is waiting!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.