Could anyone tell me how deep can you go into water without getting water into the motor. Last week I crossed a water runoff and thought it wasnt too deep until it was to late. I have a Rancher 4x ES and I think the exhaust was under water? I made it to the otherside no problem but it kind of scared the s..t out of me. I think the thing was floating? Anyhow it performed fine after this, but I was wondering for future referance how high can the water get?

Thanks Hennyhog

 

With no snorkel try not to go over the seat. If the water gets deep get on the gas and lean back. That should bring the front end up.

 

Whenever the water gets up to the gas tank, or over the fenders, you are risking getting water in the intake. If you have a close call like that, always be sure to stop as soon as possible after hitting dry land, and check the airbox for signs of moisture. Also check the oil to see if it is a milky color.

 

A couple other things to check would be :
The Rears and Brakes
We sunk a rancher and it took 6 oil changes to clear it up.
Yeah they do float...as soon as you get off.We sunk a rubi and had to float it 200-300ft down the creek to get it out.The rubi dident take any water in the oil or rears,we just pulled the plug and blew the water out and plunged the carb.
Its a little scary but you get used to it....
and then you go looking for deep water.

 

I have heard that some riders will add a snorkle to the intake that leads up the handlebars so that they can take even deeper water. Don't forget to make sure your sparkplug cap is waterproof as well. The engine will maintain positive pressure within the crankcase and exhaust so long as it continues to run. And while most ATV's will float, they prefer to float with the wheels up so that maintaining your balance can sometimes be a challenge.

 

Thanks for all the input fellas.

Hennyhog