How to drive through water...

Driving through water can be as hazardous as any terrain. The swift current, unknown bottom conditions, and possibility of engine damage can ruin a nice 4x4 outing.

1: Check the depth and bottom conditions before you attempt to drive across a stream. This may mean walking/wading through where you plan to cross the water.

2: Look to see where others have made it, and imagine what happens if your rig floats or gets washed downstream.

3: Cross streams and rivers at an angle upstream to prevent the force of the water from pushing the vehicle down stream. This helps you keep going in a more controlled manner without getting moved downstream.

4: Know where your engine air intake is, and be sure it is not lower than the deepest part of the stream you are crossing.

Many new vehicles have the air intake lower than the front bumper or in the fender. If water gets into the cylinders of a running engine it will hydrolock the engine, stopping it cold, and probably bending a rod.

5: Avoid spinning tires when they are wet, as wet rubber cuts as easy as butter on sharp rocks.