Any interest in Safari Snorkel for 2005 Tacoma?

[WATRD]

Since ARB is right here in our backyard, from time to time they touch base with WATTORA about upcoming products. Here is a perfect example of what I mean;

Hello Rob,
We need TTORA’s assistance. We are in a discussion with Australia regarding a snorkel for this application, 2005 Tacoma. We are truthfully unsure of the demand for this product. Australia is questioning how many will sell in the US market. As you know, the Tacoma is a North American vehicle only.


So can you ask, nationwide if possible, not WATTORA and see what demand there is? They’re asking for a response from us within the week. So let us truthfully see who out there is willing to spend the money, if we’re willing to make it. I imagine that millions will want it, but who actually would buy it?

Best Regards,
Scott

So, please post up if you would be serious about buying a 2005 snorkel if they went to the trouble of developing it and I will see that they get the feedback.

Thanks!

[Valkyrie]

Great question!

[WATRD]

I am not sure what a poll would look like for this question;

"Would you buy a Safari Snorkel for your 2005?"
Yes

hahahahahahh My thinking was that since all they are looking for is who would buy, posts from those folks would be enough.

[Shibumi]

Yes, Im in for one...Can you find out about the suspension height, etc. Im holding out for the ARB bumper, suspension, and snorkel.
Thanks

[Valkyrie]

I am not sure what a poll would look like for this question;

"Would you buy a Safari Snorkel for your 2005?"
Yes

hahahahahahh My thinking was that since all they are looking for is who would buy, posts from those folks would be enough.
Good point.

[WATRD]

The only problem with that is that, I don't care about the "No" folks, they should just not respond to the thread and there are not any details about anything having to do with pricing yet. So we are back to one option in the poll "Might you be interested?". The purpose of this is simply to find out if there are folks out there who are going to want a snorkel for their 2005 and presumably 2006 Tacoma's.

I applaud your desire to be thorough, but it's really more than I was asked to find out.

[hrtofdixie toy]

Valkyrie makes a good point though. My thoughts were to not reply because I don't want to be criticized if I can't follow through later; and a poll takes a little pressure off. Plus, I have considered a snorkel, but I woldn't reply because there's no estimated price. So for me, yes=$250 no=$350 somewhere in between=priceless

[WATRD]

In light of the previous posts, I pressed ARB for details. Their response was as I indicated, talking pricing is really putting the cart before the horse at this point. What they are trying to find out is if there is ANY interest in the snorkel for the 2005 body style.

Sales of the 2001-2004 snorkels were low and at this point they don't have a much if anything in the way of requests for a 2005 product. So, it's a question of whether there is enough interest to make them AT ALL, let alone at what price range.

The purpose of this thread was to see if there were 2005 owners who were going to be thinking along those lines or if ARB shouldn't even bother...

[dnstaco]

I would bye one,we just ran the mohave road and with all the dirt/sand that we hauled through a snorkle would have been very helpful for me,I just replaced the filter 2 weeks before and BAM I need a new one again.I think there may be a need amongst the peeps in the desert!!!!!

[tbrown]

I want one. I thought it would be a given, and have been waiting for it, now you guys got me worried they may not make one. Please let them know that you know of one for sure customer, I'll send them the money right now if they want, just make me a snorkel please. :D

[cole45]

Looking for a test vehicle? I'm in. There aren't many offroad accessories available for the 05, and I'm sure it would sell initially because of that. As more of the 05-?? models come out more will sell in the future as well so it's a matter of how soon after the initial release do you want to turn a profit?. How much would it cost? I guess alot depends on that. Improved fuel economy? As far as 'anybody wanting one' without respect to price, yes I do and have wanted one and I'm sure quite a few folks from this board would too.

I can see mud possibly caking in the fenderwell then blowing dust to the filter, did the filter actually have water damage or is it mainly a dust problem?

[J*C*M]

I'd probably be interested

[UncleChris]

I would be interested.

[cedarbarn]

I will buy one if it is reasonably priced.

[Dan62180]

good price and I'm in

[WATRD]

A few words from ARB,

As mentioned before, the Tacoma is a North American vehicle only; it is not available in Australia. We shipped them one under a year ago and that is where the design for the Bull Bar came from. They are currently working on the suspension and the air lockers. While the vehicle is still in Australia, the snorkel design team has access to the truck. We here in the US will hope for the best, and tell the 05 Tacoma owners to be patient. ARB knows your out there, and looking to build.

So, '05 owners, keep chiming in here if you might one day be interested in a snorkle :)

[white_eskimo]

price is a major factor of course. I personally dont think i would be buying one just because there is so much other crap out there. First i need to get the new ARB bumper, suspension stu, sliders, tires, etc... A snorkle is kinda like the cherry on the top of a sunday. Most people dont actually need it and just get it because they look cool. I run my truck through dusty logging operations all the time, and i dont think that a snorkle will help me at all as long as i am not in the water. just my $0.02 trying to help ARB. Tell them to drop the price on their damn front bumpers :)

[Bryan062087]

yes, im interested and would definitely buy one in the future

[tbrown]

Tell them to drop the price on their damn front bumpers :)
I just ordered mine two days ago. They will not be shipped out until the beginning of December, or at least that's when I can get mine up here in Canada. I'm getting mine for $930 Canadian, which is what around $800 US. That's a pretty damn good deal if you ask me. Considering it's air bag compliant, and powder coated. Good luck finding a better deal than that.

[climbdarox]

ya i would buy a snorkel...i am going to pretty soon...are you saying we can buy one through TTORA? what is the difference between the 2004 and the 2005 ones cause i have a 2004 tacoma..thanks yo

[Rob]

ya i would buy a snorkel...i am going to pretty soon...are you saying we can buy one through TTORA? what is the difference between the 2004 and the 2005 ones cause i have a 2004 tacoma..thanks yo
Did you read any of this thread?

[tbrown]

Did you read any of this thread?
I was just thinking the same thing. Climbdarox welcome to the wonderful world of "READ BEFORE YOU POST." ;)

[jsnow]

price is a major factor of course. I personally dont think i would be buying one just because there is so much other crap out there. First i need to get the new ARB bumper, suspension stu, sliders, tires, etc... A snorkle is kinda like the cherry on the top of a sunday. Most people dont actually need it and just get it because they look cool. I run my truck through dusty logging operations all the time, and i dont think that a snorkle will help me at all as long as i am not in the water. just my $0.02 trying to help ARB. Tell them to drop the price on their damn front bumpers :)

One of the reasons to run a snorkel is to breathe cleaner air in dusty conditions, not just for water crossings. So I would say that yes you could use one.

[hawaiianbro]

One of the reasons to run a snorkel is to breathe cleaner air in dusty conditions, not just for water crossings. So I would say that yes you could use one.

Actually it was discussed on here that in dusty conditions the snorkel didn't do anything to significantly help.

[WATRD]

Actually it was discussed on here that in dusty conditions the snorkel didn't do anything to significantly help.

My experience has been quite the opposite. I find that it makes a significant difference in the amount of dust ingested, as measured by what coats the filter. I run the snorkel for cooler air, less dust and water resistance, in that order.

Perhaps it depends upon the usage/conditions...

[Mikey05]

I would buy one. With the amount of flooding going on in various parts of the country it might not be a bad idea just for everyday driving. On a serious note an ounce of prevention....... quite a few people I know have gone out on trails that have swallowed their truck on a wet day. With the air intake higher the motor might not have had damage.

[TACODOC]

Actually it was discussed on here that in dusty conditions the snorkel didn't do anything to significantly help.

Well, the USMC puts snorkels (called fording kits in Jarheadese) on all its Hummers because it does help in ALL conditions, trust me I speak from years of experience driving and maintaining them in all conditions.

I'm in on the ARB snorkel. They just need to hurry up with all this stuff :rolleyes:

[SilverStreak05]

I have my doubts about it happening, only because ARB themselves stated that sales for '01 - '04 models are slow. I dont see how the next gen sales would be any better. People will always say they're interested, but how many will actually commit when it comes time to slap down the cash?

[white_eskimo]

lol of course i am interested, but am i willing to blow a couple hundred on some snorkle? no of course not. Plus, in the world of tacomas, there is so much other junk to swap out to make your rig preform better, like i said before, the last thing people really have to do is get the snorkle installed. it all boils down to money, and personally, i would rather do other stuff to my truck that actually drastically affect the off road preformance than get some stupid snorkle. sure, the air filter on my kubota tractor is above the engine compartment, so i am sure it does slightly help, but i think its just an excuse to make your rig look more "hardcore".

[fast frank]

Right now, I would have to say NO! I'm not putting that crap on my shiny new truck.

In a year or two, that will probably change. It's not going to be brand new forever.

I'm thinking that most '05 owners will think the same way.

I would say "Build them" in a few years the market will be the same as it is now for the old style trucks.

Fast Frank

[SurfingDrunk]

So, please post up if you would be serious about buying a 2005 snorkel if they went to the trouble of developing it and I will see that they get the feedback.
would the snorkel be compatable with the new style 4runners?

[WATRD]

would the snorkel be compatable with the new style 4runners?

I can't say, but ARB is reading this thread and I will pass along their reply when I get it.

[J*C*M]

After last weekend, i would buy a snorkel in a min for my 05, but if ARB doesn't hurry up i may just build a custom one myself. I only hit a few medium sized holes, not even F-ing around in the mud, just crossing, but i got far more muddy water in my airbox then i ever care to see
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b223/JasonCM/Nov/9fff7fdc.jpg

[pi]

Any word on the development on the snorkels for the 05's?
-Mike

[Dick Foster]

Don't be in any kind of hurry. ARB can be pretty slow.

[pi]

Don't be in any kind of hurry. ARB can be pretty slow.

Not really in too much of a hurry... still waiting on the lockers to come out and also want to see what ome comes up with, guess that is one of the problems with buying a vehicle that is essentially new. Not a whole lot of aftermarket support, but things are definitly picking up.
-Mike

[Dick Foster]

I'd imagine the lockers they have now will fit.

[WATRD]

Any word on the development on the snorkels for the 05's?
-Mike

I know that ARB has read the feedback in this thread, but beyond that, I haven't been informed as to whether they have made a decision about making them.

[pi]

I know that ARB has read the feedback in this thread, but beyond that, I haven't been informed as to whether they have made a decision about making them.

Thanks for the semi-update.
-Mike

[WATRD]

You are welcome. I will let you know when they let me know of a decision, one way or the other.

[viter]

Just my 2 cents on usefullness of these things:
After getting my airfilter soaked in water, but holding about 1/2-1" of water in the airbox, I finally made a snorkel by myself for like $40 bucks in parts. Since then, my airfilter has never been wet. So if you do cross thru deep water it can save your engine, as well as tranny, transfercase, and differentials if you extend all their breathers into the airbox.
http://www.rideclubsd.com/gallery/album07/PICT3374
As far as dust, I am not sure. From driving in the desert it seems like most of the heavier dust is below the snorkel level, but some lighter particles reach up there too. What is better - more smaller particles entering thru the snorkel or more heavier particels entering thru the normal intake, I am not sure. It is sure fun to discover things like butterflies and giant dragon flies in the airbox - I don't have the little grill thing like on ARB snorkels, just a big round opening. :)
http://www.rideclubsd.com/gallery/album08/PICT3733
I hope ARB makes one, because even if response right now isn't that huge, like some people mentioned earlier, it will grow as the vehicle get's older and people start getting less afraid to drill holes in their truck's body.
Oh yeah, it is also a great place to put a sticker with the website you are trying to support, since everybody stares at this thing all the time. ;)
http://www.rideclubsd.com/gallery/corral_canyon_ucsd_mtb_race_05/IMG_0980?full=1

[tbrown]

ARB just released the front locker for the late model 8" diff. Meaning 05 Taco's can now get an ARB front locker. There are two seperate lockers the one that fits the 05 tacoma's is the RD121. For the rear if you don't have the TRD you can get the same RD89 the same one as was used on the older Tacoma's.

http://www.arb.com.au/New_Product_Advices/air_locker_rd_111_rd121.pdf

[tbrown]

As for the OME suspension they said they would know more by January, but they are hoping for an early 06 release.

[pi]

ARB just released the front locker for the late model 8" diff. Meaning 05 Taco's can now get an ARB front locker.

http://www.arb.com.au/New_Product_Advices/air_locker_rd_111_rd121.pdf

I know this is off topic... but by reading that release which application would be used for an 05 2.7? It is my understanding that the 2.7's have 4.10's:

NOTE: The RD111 & RD121 cover a carrier break determined by
the ring and pinion ratio. At the time of release the exact
carrier break ratios have not been determined. Please
consult Air Locker application charts for updates.
Refer to RD111 for ‘x.xx & UP’ ratio range applications.
Refer to RD121 for ‘x.xx & DN’ ratio range applications.
Known applications for RD111:
2004 on Toyota Landcruiser Prado, 4.10:1 ratio
Known applications for RD121:
2005 Toyota Tacoma, 3.73:1 ratio
Toyota Hilux, 3.58:1 ratio

-Mike

[pi]

For the rear if you don't have the TRD you can get the same RD89 the same one as was used on the older Tacoma's.



When I spoke to ARB about the rear, and I forgot who I talked to because it was a few months ago, the rep said that the rear should be the same... they were awaiting some testing results. Good to see that it is the same.
-Mike

[tbrown]

In your case I think you want the RD111. Call or email ARB for certainty though.

[dragunov]

i would definitly buy one

[ErrinV]

Just came across this thread. Any update on the possibility of the snorkels? I'd definelty buy one.

[gerhar]

I'm in. I'll buy one.

Toyota's airbox design/location on this truck is the dumbest thing i've ever seen. I just found out the hard way (contamination). If you've ever been through dust, water, or mud, check your filters people.

For shame, Toyota.

[2Tense]

Bump, Any info on an ETA...

Would a moderator take the time to move this thread to "Late Tacoma 4x4 Tech"

[TacomaHarry]

Any updates ?? :confused:

Depending on $$ I'd be in. :cool:

I too have found splash marks on the bottom side of my airfilter. :eek:

[OR_05Taco]

I'd definately get one if the price wasn't outrageous.

[WATRD]

Okay, I just completed an email thread directly with ARB and here is their response to my questions about a snorkel for the '05+ Tacoma's.

"There weren't enough requests for it, even though there seemed to be a lot. They (Safari) won't be making one for it."

It seems that while we had a lot of positive repsonses here, in the grand scheme of things, that wasn't enough to tool up for a production run.

They did however, offer a ray of hope. It seems that the issue may not be completely closed and if enough people put in a request at http://www.safari4x4.com.au/docs/info.htm there might still be hope.

Ultimately, the best way to make a statement about something like this, would be to call up your favorite off road shop and place an order for one. They will then have to contact ARB and if ARB hears of enough pre-orders, that will show them it's worth their efforts to make.

However, as things stand right now, there will be no snorkel for the '05+ models. If I hear otherwise, I will post again.

[WATRD]

Also, since some were discussing air-lockers in this thread, here's an updated application table from ARB


On the Toyota page of your Air Locker application chart, please make these changes for the Tundra, T100, Tacoma 4x4 front listings.

Front 2004 -2006 8" dia RG, IFS clamshell,
53mm brg shaft dia 33mm (1.31") 30 spline 3.91 & up RD111

Front 2004-2006 8" dia RG, IFS clamshell,
53mm brg shaft dia 33mm (1.31") 30 spline 3.73 & dwn RD121

Front to 2004 7.5" dia. RG, 10 bolt,
IFS shaft dia 28mm (1.1") 27 spline all RD90

For the rear listing, under year, it is listed: ALL Change the listing to: up to 2006

[2Tense]

Thank you WATRD for the update, not what I really wanted to read.
I'm very dissapointed that "Safari" feels it's a waste of time for a production run.

Just the other day I had a conversation with Bud (budbuilt) and he expressed the demand for product for the 05/06 Tacoma's and was suprised how fast guys are building up the new rigs compared to the earlier model.

You did mention a pre-order... is this something you can organize? Like give us a link to prepay? I feel if we had one big power buy/preorder it would make a bigger impact then a few sporatic preorders from other authorized distributors.

[cedarbarn]

Oh Well, Safari is not going to make a snorkel... I have seen some well made snorkels fabricated from scratch for Tacomas, and Land Cruisers... The price Safari charges for a snorkel will go a LONG way towards parts and fabrication of a snorkel...

I am going to make my own, and will save $$ doing it.

[WATRD]

You did mention a pre-order... is this something you can organize? Like give us a link to prepay? I feel if we had one big power buy/preorder it would make a bigger impact then a few sporatic preorders from other authorized distributors.

The impression I got from ARB was that pre-orders from a variety of their distributors would be the most convincing, but they didn't come right out and say that, so you might be right about a mass order instead.

I will toss out there that in passing, they mentioned the number 100-200, for the number of pre-orders that would be potentially required to trigger a production run.

I don't have a '05, so it might make more sense for someone else to do the organizing.

[Sisyphus]

If the price is reasonable, I'd buy one.

[asteffes]

I am interested.

[bulletbikeguy]

I wouldn't mind one. Money talks though!

[2Tense]

It's really nice to see this post is alive again... unfortunately, I called ARB on the 8th (06/08/06) and was told it's not going to happen :mad: I was told it was based on the sales from '01-'04 snorkels. I put my best salesman hat on and tried my best... we would need a dealer to take 100 orders, in order for them to lay out the cost of tooling...

[TACODOC]

It's really nice to see this post is alive again... unfortunately, I called ARB on the 8th (06/08/06) and was told it's not going to happen :mad: I was told it was based on the sales from '01-'04 snorkels. I put my best salesman hat on and tried my best... we would need a dealer to take 100 orders, in order for them to lay out the cost of tooling...

I'll take one and I'll pay up front if someone can organize this. We should be able to get 100 orders if we team up with TS, yotatech, expedition portal and others.

It may take time but persistence pays off, ...right Zarqawi??? :woot: :flipoff3: :xusflag:

[UncleChris]

I am definitely interested in one. After some of the dust my truck has been through I think it is a necessity.

If they had them, I would be ordering one right now.

[WATRD]

It's really nice to see this post is alive again... unfortunately, I called ARB on the 8th (06/08/06) and was told it's not going to happen :mad: I was told it was based on the sales from '01-'04 snorkels. I put my best salesman hat on and tried my best... we would need a dealer to take 100 orders, in order for them to lay out the cost of tooling...

Hmm... that sounds exactly like what I posted!

[J.T.054x4Taco]

2Tense..are the snorkles going to be roughly the same price as the one's for the 04's and below?

[TACODOC]

are the snorkles going to be roughly the same price as the one's for the 04's and below?

Probably as much or more than, if they ever make one...

[REALM]

Right now... no.
In a year or two... definitely!

[2Tense]

Hmm... that sounds exactly like what I posted!

deja vu... Watrd, trust me I didn't just copy and paste your post :) ...
I was looking at the TTORA gallery and saw the two camo painted Tacoma w/snorkles. Was feeling the need to make a call for the latest info...

Unfortunately, the info you posted three months ago still stands today.

This really friggin' sucks.

[WATRD]

deja vu... Watrd, trust me I didn't just copy and paste your post :) ...
I was looking at the TTORA gallery and saw the two camo painted Tacoma w/snorkles. Was feeling the need to make a call for the latest info...

Unfortunately, the info you posted three months ago still stands today.

This really friggin' sucks.

hahahah :)

I continue to chat with them weekly and this subject always comes up. I will certainly post again if there is any movement on the subject.

[TACODOC]

Eventually SOMEONE will make one...

[Sisyphus]

I'm willing to prepay if they can get it made for me. Would there be any difference between the 4 cyl and V-6 models?

[WATRD]

I will be hanging out and wheeling with the ARB crew, including the president of ARBUSA at our chapter event on July 15th, so I will make sure this subject comes up again...

[TACODOC]

I am willing to prepay as well.

[Mikey05]

I am hoping to make the same event on the 15th of July and hopefully I can convince them as well that there is quite a bit of interest for the 05's and up.

[cedarbarn]

I will be hanging out and wheeling with the ARB crew, including the president of ARBUSA at our chapter event on July 15th, so I will make sure this subject comes up again...

When Jim Jackson (ARB USA President) and TR Burrus (Our rep) were in Dallas the same subject came up. Jim's explanation to us was that the Safari snorkel is marketed around the globe for Toyota vehicles, and sells, but the Tacoma is only sold here in the US market. The demand has been so small in the US market for snorkels that it is not economically viable to develop a snorkel for the 05+ Tacomas, when the sales for the 04- Tacomas has been so slow.

Demand for the snorkel must be in the hundreds per month to make it economically viable for the product to be developed.

[WATRD]

When Jim Jackson (ARB USA President) and TR Burrus (Our rep) were in Dallas the same subject came up. Jim's explanation to us was that the Safari snorkel is marketed around the globe for Toyota vehicles, and sells, but the Tacoma is only sold here in the US market. The demand has been so small in the US market for snorkels that it is not economically viable to develop a snorkel for the 05+ Tacomas, when the sales for the 04- Tacomas has been so slow.

Demand for the snorkel must be in the hundreds per month to make it economically viable for the product to be developed.

See my earlier posts for what they are saying is the trigger number. These guys are on the right track, if they can get organized and get enough pre-orders in, everything ARB is telling me that they can pull it off... But, one person speaking to them at a time isn't going to cut it. The '05+ crowd need to get organized and get a vendor on the hook to collect the pre-orders.

[Mikey05]

I guess the best thing is to start a list. Any of the vendors that we all use online here want to take this one on?

[Valkyrie]

I sure hope it works, I'd love to have the product to sell. However, my conversations with JJ lead me to believe that even a "trigger" of 100-200 wouldn't mean anything to Safari (in his opinion).

Matts synopsis is exactly consistent with what I've very recently been told & why.

Rob, thanks for grabbing the torch and running though... :)

[asteffes]

I'll prepay, too.

[WATRD]

Not a problem. I see them anyway since they are in the neighborhood. We cross paths on the trails on a pretty regular basis as well. It's nice to walk into their shop and be on a first name basis though... I have known a few of them for years.

[asteffes]

When Jim Jackson (ARB USA President) and TR Burrus (Our rep) were in Dallas the same subject came up. Jim's explanation to us was that the Safari snorkel is marketed around the globe for Toyota vehicles, and sells, but the Tacoma is only sold here in the US market. The demand has been so small in the US market for snorkels that it is not economically viable to develop a snorkel for the 05+ Tacomas, when the sales for the 04- Tacomas has been so slow.

Demand for the snorkel must be in the hundreds per month to make it economically viable for the product to be developed.

I would think they might want to do it to round-out their product line, to show continued support for the US Toyota market.

[WATRD]

I'll prepay, too.

Find a vendor who will take a formal count and hold deposits. That will speak volumes to ARB.

Maybe the Wabbit, or Mike at Xtreme if he is still around... Something like that.

[Percy]

Maybe we're looking at this wrong. Maybe we should just fab up our own, throw the $60 ARB screen at the top and call it all good. Sell the kits for half the price of the ARB kit and MAKE BANK off of the lost opportunity that ARB seems to want to turn away. If you sold 100 kits at $100 a pop, less than half of ARB, (grand total -ARB screen around $10-15 a pop worth of plastic tubing) that's quite a bit of profit.

[TacomaHarry]

I'm interested in a Snorkle for my '05 too.

I'd like to see what I'm buying. I rarely buy site unseen. Make a good product and they will come.

[TACODOC]

This was taken at a recent off road expo in Germany...
Thanks to tacosupreme for the pic.
This is an 06 diesel Hilux so it wont fit the 1GR-FE but it IS similar to what one for the tacoma would look like
The A-pillar angle is identical as the cab is the same as ours :D


http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/hiluxsnorkel.jpg

[Mikey05]

So if the angle and lines are the same exterior on this model then you should be able to get the external parts and fab up the underhood plumbing.......
:confused:

[TACODOC]

So if the angle and lines are the same exterior on this model then you should be able to get the external parts and fab up the underhood plumbing.......
:confused:

Kind of... The similarities stop at the bottom of the A-pillar. The Hilux has different fenders, AND since it's a diesel the intake is completely different. What I'm seeing here is if there is one for the Hilux then one for ours should be a snap for them to make.

OR somebody could adapt this to fit ours and produce a batch ;)

[cedarbarn]

Bump for snorkels.

I heard a rumor that ARB is going to make a rear bumper for the 05+ Tacomas... Can anyone corraborate this?

[TACODOC]

Thats news to me, but I hope they do...

[WATRD]

Bump for snorkels.

I heard a rumor that ARB is going to make a rear bumper for the 05+ Tacomas... Can anyone corraborate this?

I didn't hear anything when I wheeled with them at the FJ Trail Team event, but I can ask tomorrow, I am meeting with them for something else.

[TACODOC]

Tell them mofo's we want snorkels AND rear bumpers! Tell them! :kewl:

[my05taco]

im ready for a snorkel on my truck too so lets see what anyone can come up with. if arb cant get their shit together then screw them and take the business to someone who will allow for us in the budget. if some one can build one, they will be the sole provider of a much needed off road product that there will be demand for even if it is a slow demand. there is no possible way that with all of the snorkels sold on pre 05 tacomas that arb did not make a profit in addition to paying off the r&d process. bottom line, there are many people now, in addition to future demand for this product.

Zach

[TACODOC]

:bump: :bump: :bump:

Any updates from ARB???

[HBjeff]

how much R&D does it REALLY take to make a snorkel for these trucks?

[SurfingDrunk]

I didn't hear anything when I wheeled with them at the FJ Trail Team event, but I can ask tomorrow, I am meeting with them for something else.
??

[TACODOC]

how much R&D does it REALLY take to make a snorkel for these trucks?

Not F'n much considering they have one for the 06 Hilux and the A-pillar is the same...

[HBjeff]

exactly, they are an OFFROAD accessory company.....i dont see the logic in not offering this

[cedarbarn]

The logic according to the President of ARB USA and our regional Rep is the bottom line. They are looking at the market of 05+ vehicles that are purchasing offroad accessories. At the time I spoke with them they did not see the market in the US to sell snorkels for 05+ trucks. The few of us that have posted on this forum are not enough for them to go into production.

ARB sells snorkels around the world. The US market is their smallest market for snorkels. Our roads are well maintained. The general population does not need the dust protection afforded by the snorkel, nor the water crossing ability. It is a niche market in the US.

If anyone reading this knows when the safari snorkel was made to fit the first Tacomas please let me know. How long after the first Tacomas were introduced into the market was the Safari snorkel available for them??

[WATRD]

I pinged ARB again about both the 05+ snorkel and the rumor of a rear bumper.

No Taco snorkel… Sales weren’t enough for the prior year models… not cost effective to produce…

As of this moment, no rear bar for Taco… Our Taco is still in Australia, so maybe, possibly an inkling of a chance, but I doubt it.

[TACODOC]

Well, since ARB doesnt want this despite the obvious market, this would be a prime opportunity for an enterprising young lad to acquire a Hilux snorkel and figure out what it would take to make one for the Tacoma, then manufacture and sell them... :2cents:

[Percy]

Let's analyze this. I don't have a snorkel, so does the snorkel on older models replace the stock airbox? Or does it simply involve relocating the air input from the stock location to the raised tube intake that bolts to the a-pillar?

What is this like, $10 worth of black PVC and some textured paint? Maybe some silicon sealant to block off the original intake? Do we really need ARB to provide us with snorkels or is this something that can be easily fabbed?

I tend to believe that with the genius level folks we have on TTORA that perform things like the "Grey Wire Mod" I'm sure we can figure this out without ARB and save ourselves about $225 a piece. Screw em'. Their loss.

[Percy]

I just looked at the complete kit from Safari Snorkel (ARB). Hell no. Especially not at that price. When I finally feel froggy enough I'll fab my own. That seals the deal on the bumper, too. Why work with a company that doesn't care about our market when we have vendors like Demello who are willing to take everyone's needs into account? I know who will be getting my mod-money and it won't be ARB.

[cedarbarn]

The Safari Snorkel does not replace the airbox. It attaches inside the fender well to the tube that runs to the airbox.

There are a variety of ways to design a snorkel that will work.

Here is a thread to check out.

http://www.ttora.com/forum/showthread.php?t=36286&highlight=snorkel+Ideas

And here...

http://www.tacomaterritory.com/tacozilla/

[Paul]

Home made snorkels generally look like ass. I'd rather spend a bit of money on something that looks nice rather than some janky ass shit from the hardware store.

[Percy]

Thanks Cedarbarn! Some cool designs over there. I'm bettin' that with some patience and a torch we could make a custom TTORA snorkel kit that's every bit as over-priced (I mean functional) as the ARB one.

[cedarbarn]

Home made snorkels generally look like ass. I'd rather spend a bit of money on something that looks nice rather than some janky ass shit from the hardware store.

Yeah, but if it is not even offered on the market, how the fuck are you going to buy one??

[my05taco]

i was seriously considering buying an ARB bumper (i like the idea of plate over tube) but with the advent of the fact that arb refuses to make a snorkel for 05's+, i will not buy an ARB bumper. i will just wait until someone decides to make a plate bumper with full upper protection (hoops). this whole process is becoming quite frusterating. and furthermore i refuse to believe that no one other than ARB has the ability to make snorkels for these trucks.

[2Tense]

IMO, that's the wrong way to look at it...
The ARB bumper for the '05+ is the "shizzle my nizzle". It looks good, fits awesome, works outstanding w/a winch.

I too want a snorkel for my truck, but that didn't stop me from getting the bumper. I'll be patient and wait for ARB to do us right, the home made set-up is not going to cut it for me.

[my05taco]

i love their bumper and i do really want one. but at the same point, why should i buy from a company that will only supply me with one thing that i want? i dont want to reward them for only making one product for a truck that there is a good following for even if it is only sold in the usa. im not going to cut up my new truck to home depot my airbox. so i guess that the bottom line is we are all SOL until someone get into gear and takes advantage of a monoply opertunity. sole provider of a said aftermarket product? if i had the ability to make one that would look half decent, i would love to jump on this but i dont. so i say again, who does? i dont mean to come off like a dick but why should we bitch about something and not do anything?!?!? if they wont build it, find someone who will. you cant tell me that it costs ARB 200 in parts and labor to build. they are making a killing on these things!

[Valkyrie]

Well you obviously don't understand business. The cost of parts & labor is not the formula for pricing a product. Besides design, equipment, dies, injection molds, packaging design & packaging material, warranty reserve, advertising, overhead I have it on pretty good authority ;) that thier margin is not exactly a "killing".

In ventures like this, a product doesn't become profitable (i.e. breakeven) until 'X' are sold. Then, even more have to be produced to expand the profit to a point it becomes a viable business with a reasonable profit.

Simple economics says that if you sincerely need a scapegoat, then I would suggest blaming every Tacoma owner that doesn't have a snorkle... they created the historical data. :rolleyes:

[my05taco]

i need things simplified for me and as all of this does make sense, i just dont understand why we have to deal with ARB to make this product. and secondly, i understand that we are paying for R&D, plus manufacturing. but 200 seems steep for some plastic, instructions and tubing. i dont know maybe i just dont understand the consepts of supply and demand, but im planning on getting some education in that area. until then i will just remain as a novice carpenter who wants a snorkle and an education.

i dont mean to start anything but i dont see how it can be that hard to manufacture a product. take a SAS kit perhaps. how many can one expect to sell but still the RD is put forth? along with all of the aforementioned aspects of production.

maybe i should just shut up? and finish this with, i still want a snorkel! how about i go make one then?

[asteffes]

i need things simplified for me and as all of this does make sense, i just dont understand why we have to deal with ARB to make this product. and secondly, i understand that we are paying for R&D, plus manufacturing. but 200 seems steep for some plastic, instructions and tubing. i dont know maybe i just dont understand the consepts of supply and demand, but im planning on getting some education in that area. until then i will just remain as a novice carpenter who wants a snorkle and an education.

i dont mean to start anything but i dont see how it can be that hard to manufacture a product. take a SAS kit perhaps. how many can one expect to sell but still the RD is put forth? along with all of the aforementioned aspects of production.

maybe i should just shut up? and finish this with, i still want a snorkel! how about i go make one then?

While the cost of any product has to cover the expenses of production, it also has to turn enough profit to make manufacturing worthwhile. Products are priced according to what the market will bear. ARB has found that people are happy to pay $200+ for a non-Home-Depot-hackjob snorkel kit so that's what they charge. It covers costs, it makes them a profit which allows them to stay in business, and customers get the product they want.

[my05taco]

i dont deny that they have to turn a profit that is not my issue at all and no one seems to get it so fine lets move on

[TACODOC]

I bet they make one for the FJ... :mad:
I understand business, I just wish there was a smaller company, maybe here in the USA, who would fill this niche with a decent product.
$200 is not unreasonable IMO for all the reasons already talked about in this thread, nobody wants a 3" sewer pipe sticking out of a fender :eek:

What we need is an off road enterpreneur that sees the opportunity here to get into the off road accessory business!

[Bora12]

why don't we all try emailing banks enginering, they are all ready making an exhaust for our trucks and they do do plastic work for their intakes......

[Valkyrie]

why don't we all try emailing banks enginering, they are all ready making an exhaust for our trucks and they do do plastic work for their intakes......
Knock yourself out...

[Valkyrie]

Your point is you don't understand why it's $275. You don't see the value in the product, so it seems expensive. This is exactly the battle they fought with the early Tacoma crowd- a notoriously cheap crowd that would buy a $20-25k truck and install PVC pipe & a toilet vent... :rolleyes:

Knowing what I know, I completely understand why they wouldn't want to bring that product to market.

I also guarantee you that there will be one for the FJ Crusier, and very quickly. If anyone can't figure out why, you need to take your head out of the sand.

[Bora12]

Knock yourself out...


Valkyrie, do you not think this is a good idea?

i was just throwing out an idea for a soulution to a problem it seems like alot of people are interested in.....

[Bora12]

if they do make one for the FJ, then it seems like it would be pretty easy to take the snorkle from a HILUX and add it to the airbox attachment for a FJ.


i am not an expert like i said earlier, just ideas

[doublej]

if they do make one for the FJ, then it seems like it would be pretty easy to take the snorkle from a HILUX and add it to the airbox attachment for a FJ.


i am not an expert like i said earlier, just ideas

well then youd have to buy two kits. more then most wanna spend. im stationed in england right now, and if i can find a used one (for any truck or suv), this winter i will try to make it work. nothing in the near future but at the top of my winter work list.

[Shibumi]

I understand not wanting to go through all the work for no payoff.
Since the product is already there, why not have a 05 kit which works off the Hilux model.
There is no point in Reengineering the Wheel, so why not reengineer the few differences that exist.
This could continue for the 05 and any subsequent models.
The kit would probably only need to cover anything behind the sheetmetal.
Any ideas?
Dick Foster? Your a smart guy, lets hear your input.. ;)

[Valkyrie]

Valkyrie, do you not think this is a good idea?

i was just throwing out an idea for a soulution to a problem it seems like alot of people are interested in.....
In theory, no. Given the results of previous generations Tacoma sales that they would undoubtedly inquire about, coupled with the fact that if they are not careful there "could" be some legal entanglements with ARB it seems unlikely they would undertake anything more than a passing glance, but you never know till you try. :)

[Valkyrie]

why not reengineer the few differences that exist.
The Hilux fender is not the same as the Tacoma fender- so in this case "reengineering" would still entail new product development (testing/molds/machinery)... the Hilux may as well be the lunar module for comparison's sake.

[TACODOC]

I also guarantee you that there will be one for the FJ Crusier, and very quickly. If anyone can't figure out why, you need to take your head out of the sand.

OK, now I really hate that damn ugly FJ... :aahg:

Seriously, if you're going to support a brand and a whole community of off-roaders how can you pick and choose which models to offer your gear for?

It just aint fair! :xcrybaby:

Now I have an idea... If a guy had the under hood portion for a 1GR-FE from an FJ... And he had the Hilux upper and top... All you would need is some way to connect through the Tacoma fender to the intake that looked nice and sealed up well... And it would LOOK like an ARB due to it's 75% made in Australia parts...
:welder: :saw:

We're not defeated yet, Gentlemen. Good old fashioned American ingenuity will save the day once again... :kewl:

Now where's Dick Foster???

[Packoo]

I am currently looking into getting an 06 taco 4x4 this week....

I am throwing my hat in the ring, I am going to want one....

There are too many fellas here that visit this forum that: build it, drive it, break it and fix it for this many people not to get this piece... I have faith...

[cedarbarn]

I realized during a conversation with a friend last night that many of you may not realize that ARB does not manufacture the Safari Snorkel... They just import it.

[Sisyphus]

:bump:

Cause I'm still dreaming of a Safari Snorkel!

[TACODOC]

:bump: :bump: :bump:

[my05taco]

who is the manufactuer of the snorkels then? i doubt anything can be done on their end but just some interesting info to be had there

[cedarbarn]

who is the manufactuer of the snorkels then? i doubt anything can be done on their end but just some interesting info to be had there

Safari manufactures the snorkel. ;)

http://www.safari4x4.com.au/

http://www.safari4x4.com.au/docs/product.htm

Head Office: Safari Automotive Technologies Pty. Ltd.
73 Merrindale Drive, South Croydon 3136 Australia.

Tel: +61 3 9761 7244 Fax: +61 3 9761 7665

[TACODOC]

The end of times is near...
There is a company making a snorkel for the new Nissan Frontier :mad:

http://www.4x4parts.com/public_html/shop/index.php3?page=shop/flypage&product_id=4175&category_id=f9d8a87925d843840e8ac32a498b260c

And yet we have none for the new gen Tacoma! :bs: :bs: :bs: :bs:

WTF?

[DirtyDC05]

can someone tell me why this wont fit the taco ? http://www.safari4x4.com.au/docs/snorkel/ss125.htm

[tacosupreme]

I looked at one in person a couple months ago, you could mod it to work, but the way the horizontal piece is formed the fender would make it stick out. The hilux body lines are different. Not saying it couldn't be done, it'd just be ugly.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e144/woodlogan/DSCF0030.jpg
Wish I had a better angle to compare-
http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e144/woodlogan/DSC01638.jpg

Ugly little sucker for a 'yoter
http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e144/woodlogan/DSC01637.jpg

[SGT.Capl]

If the 05+ taco looked like that I'd be driving a 04 or a Nissan.

[Sisyphus]

The official response I got from Safari Snorkel:

Hi Chris,

Thanks for your enquiry and interest in Safari.


When it comes to new models of snorkels, there is several important factors that need to be taken into account. Obviously market size, cost to produce and of course having access to a vehicle. As the Tacoma is not a local model vehicle here in Australia, it becomes very difficult for us to even contemplate producing such a snorkel as we don’t have anything to work off. In order to do so we need to import a vehicle for that sole purpose which as you can imagine is quite an expensive process. The real underlying factor is that the importation needs to be warranted by guaranteed sales. At this stage we have no immediate plans to produce a snorkel for this model, but it is something we constantly monitor. We would look to sell at least 500 before it would be cost effective to produce an item for this model.



Best regards,

James Gruber

Safari Automotive Technologies

[Sisyphus]

So, uh, I'll put down money on one. That makes one, 499 left...

[Lost Canadian]

Ugly little sucker for a 'yoter

Yeah but they sure do clean up nice. :D
http://i98.photobucket.com/albums/l242/adventurenorth/Hilux-AT35-blar.jpg

[TACODOC]

Nissan Frontier gets a snorkel... :confused:

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/93003ec8676154bd800f63ea03e8c971.jpg

[Lost Canadian]

Nissan Frontier gets a snorkel... :confused:

Most likely because they sell the Frontier in other countries (It has different names in different places ie Navara in Australia and in parts of Europe ) unlike the Tacoma which for the most part is sold only in North America.

[TACODOC]

Most likely because they sell the Frontier in other countries (It has different names in different places ie Navara in Australia and in parts of Europe ) unlike the Tacoma which for the most part is sold only in North America.

OK, the Titan is north America only and they have one for it too... WTF???
From the same site, they also make one for the Hardbody and the Xterra.

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/titansnorkel.jpg

[Lost Canadian]

OK, the Titan is north America only and they have one for it too... WTF???
From the same site, they also make one for the Hardbody and the Xterra.


Ah now that's just BS. Where the 'F' is the snorkel for the Tacoma. If the titan has one.... Now I'm pissed! :mad: :p Who makes it for the titan? Maybe they would be interested in making one for the Tacoma, considering the Tacoma is a more popular truck.

[cedarbarn]

How about an Airtec Snorkel....

I have seen TJM products here on trucks... Maybe they would be willing to make a snorkel for our market. ??

http://www.tjm.com.au/Default.aspx?tabid=61

I have sent them an E-mail...

[TACODOC]

How about an Airtec Snorkel....

I have seen TJM products here on trucks... Maybe they would be willing to make a snorkel for our market. ??

http://www.tjm.com.au/Default.aspx?tabid=61

I have sent them an E-mail...

It would sell like mad if someone would just make one :cool:

[ocdropzone]

How about an Airtec Snorkel....

I have seen TJM products here on trucks... Maybe they would be willing to make a snorkel for our market. ??

http://www.tjm.com.au/Default.aspx?tabid=61

I have sent them an E-mail...

I sent them one too, curious as to what they will reply. Maybe they will wonder with getting a few email requests for the same product and develop something on their CAD systems....

[cedarbarn]

Hi MAtt

we have no tacoma snorkel at this stage

we have a new tacoma bar we will laucnh at sema
\
Michael Everett
Export Manager

TJM - SERIOUS 4WD EQUIPMENT

150 Robinson Road
Geebung 4034
Brisbane Australia

Ph: +61 7 3865 9824
Fax: +61 7 3865 9922
meverett@tjm.com.au
www.tjm.com.au

[my05taco]

Ah now that's just BS. Where the 'F' is the snorkel for the Tacoma. If the titan has one.... Now I'm pissed! :mad: :p Who makes it for the titan? Maybe they would be interested in making one for the Tacoma, considering the Tacoma is a more popular truck.

it is a nissan only bassed company in florida i blieve. they are very nice people to deal with. i used to order from them often when i had my X. It cant hurt to ask them right? ill shoot off an email now and post the reply.
later
Zach

[bradleyem]

I can't believe that there is no one out there that would be willing to manufacture a snorkle for these trucks. Especially since it seems that the difference between the hilux and the Tacoma is one plastic piece inside the fender. So there would be a little cost in R&D......the entire thing is PLASTIC! Once you set up the molds what is the profit margin? The things probably cost like $5.00 to make and they are selling them for $300 or more. Damn, I wish that I had the equipment to mold these things.....I'd have my pimpin rig done in no time $$$$$$$$

[cedarbarn]

it is a nissan only bassed company in florida i blieve. they are very nice people to deal with. i used to order from them often when i had my X. It cant hurt to ask them right? ill shoot off an email now and post the reply.
later
Zach

Cool, let us know what you find out...

Somebody will want to make em...

[TACODOC]

:xpopcorn:

[2Tense]

it is a Nissan only bassed company in florida i blieve. they are very nice people to deal with. i used to order from them often when i had my X. It cant hurt to ask them right? ill shoot off an email now and post the reply.
Zach, Are you talking about the guy in Pompano Beach, he's big time into the Nissan stuff? If I'm correct this guy has one bad ass yellow Xterra.

If so, the ironic thing is my brother-in-law is the parts manager for a Penske owned Nissan dealership and deals with this indiviual on a daily basis. I've seen this dudes rig on the road and know exactly where his warehouse is located. I'll stop by and see what's his deal with the snorkels... who manufactured them, price and can we get one made for us.

[ah64id]

I am in the market for an 07 and would really like to install a snorkel for dust.

I email safari snorkel about 2 weeks ago and they claim that they dont think ARB has ever had an 05+ in Austrailia.... They said it will be considered, but at this point wont import one.. Seems odd since ARB has had one there for bumper and locker mfg...

[ocdropzone]

I am in the market for an 07 and would really like to install a snorkel for dust.

I email safari snorkel about 2 weeks ago and they claim that they dont think ARB has ever had an 05+ in Austrailia.... They said it will be considered, but at this point wont import one.. Seems odd since ARB has had one there for bumper and locker mfg...

Try this thread...http://ttora.com/forum/showthread.php?t=48818

looks like this may be the only way to go, but you do have a good point about the bumper. But they may have had the measurements sent to them. Having a third member sent to them would have been cheaper than a whole truck. ARB basically says that they did not sell enough for the previous model Taco's (US only market) and they would not sell enough units to make it worth their effort...

[ah64id]

Try this thread...http://ttora.com/forum/showthread.php?t=48818

looks like this may be the only way to go, but you do have a good point about the bumper. But they may have had the measurements sent to them. Having a third member sent to them would have been cheaper than a whole truck. ARB basically says that they did not sell enough for the previous model Taco's (US only market) and they would not sell enough units to make it worth their effort...

Not really interested in a home snorkel...thou I have seen some nice ones from mandrel bent exhaust... but they just dont look as nice... and since I want it for dust I'll wait...

Accorting to a ARB quote by WATRD on page 1 there is an 05 taco down under...

[Lost Canadian]

Accorting to a ARB quote by WATRD on page 1 there is an 05 taco down under...
Update to that will read 'there was' it's back in Seattle now.

[TACODOC]

I still want a snorkel

[ah64id]

Update to that will read 'there was' it's back in Seattle now.


DOH!!!

Too bad they didnt make a mold when it was there.... .

[TACODOC]

DOH!!!

Too bad they didnt make a mold when it was there.... .

They probably did that and more... they're holding out on us :2cents:

[ah64id]

They probably did that and more... they're holding out on us :2cents:

One can only hope...

Here is my latest email from safari

I have not heard from ARB as yet as to whether they have had one in there, I presume however its very similar to our new Hilux that we have here. It might be worth having a look at our website to see if that’s the case. It will be listed under the Toyota Hilux SS120HF snorkel.



Unless ARB specifically approach us to produce a snorkel to suit, generally we do not produce a snorkel for the US market, it just so happens that sometimes our local snorkels actually suit the same vehicle in the states.


sounds like ARB never even asked them to do one?? I thought Safari was the company not interested in making it??

Oh well.. doesnt change the fact that I still want one...

[ocdropzone]

One can only hope...

Here is my latest email from safari



sounds like ARB never even asked them to do one?? I thought Safari was the company not interested in making it??

Oh well.. doesnt change the fact that I still want one...

Looks like you got a lot better response than i did from them. The one that they showed, the SS120HF, doesn't quite look right.

I am wondering though if this one from the PRADO 120 Series 4.0 might work with some tweaking...(SS186HF) http://www.safari4x4.com.au/docs/snorkel/ss186.htm
or pieced together with this one:
http://www.safari4x4.com.au/docs/snorkel/ss125.htm

[heeltoe989]

I say yes to a snorkel!!!

[offroadcoma]

ive been begging for an arb snorkel for my tacoma! hook a brotha up

[Crazy Geologist]

further interest here.

the market is growing.

[offroadcoma]

Hell yeah!we want snorkels we want snorkels! If you dont like snorkels your should trade in your'coma for a saturn ion. Its just fun to say snorkel anyway....Snorkel.
order me a snorkel and put it on my tab, tell Lucky i said its cool.

[ocdropzone]

You guys dug up a pretty old thread, this might help you out:

make one!!:D
http://ttora.com/forum/showthread.php?t=48818&highlight=snorkel (http://ttora.com/forum/showthread.php?t=48818&highlight=snorkel)

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f186/aljd546/IMGP3822.jpg

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f186/aljd546/IMGP3821.jpg

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f186/aljd546/IMGP3820.jpg

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f186/aljd546/IMGP3819.jpg

[Crazy Geologist]

That is among the best looking homemade snorkels I have seen.

I am in seattle these days and headed to portland at the end of the month. I'd like to see your snorkel and some of the other mods you've done.

[ocdropzone]

It is not mine, I quoted the thread that DirtyDC05 did. He is the one that made the snorkel.

[offroadcoma]

Have you noticed more air intake or a lil more h.p.? or not at all?
will you make me a snorkel?
ill buy you a 36 pack!

[ocdropzone]

If you read the post above, it was not my truck..see this thread...
http://ttora.com/forum/showthread.php?t=48818&highlight=snorkel

PM DirtyDC05 and ask him, it is his truck...

[jbhowat]

It seems like it wouldn't be TOO difficult to fab something up out of thin aluminum sheet, especially if someone is good with welding aluminum. Of course you'd want to have something on the back side of it to make sure it doesn't rub your paint... but if its made out of metal it won't be flexing a lot anyway if you have it mounted securely.

I just so happen to work with a guy who is an aluminum welding master. I'm going to have to start working on a proof-of-concept and then see if he and I (I'm not bad at welding either) could fab something up. My goal would be on the exterior piece the welds would be on the top and bottom of the "flat" piece that goes against the fender/a-piller. The profile of the exterior piece would hopefully be round on the outside, with the flat piece on the inside - or possibly it could be more "boxy" maybe kinda like this (where the top would face out away from the vehicle) / \ . I'm split. I actually think the slightly boxy version would look better than having a rounded piece of aluminum. Not sure which would be cheaper because the boxy one would require more welding... maybe.

The 4x4 shop I work at typically works on old Jeeps and military vehicles, but we're always encouraged to come up with stuff that'll make money (we've designed a steel diff-cage thingy and then sold the design to a Jeep company - and locally we fab up rear tire / fuel can carriers for people). I'm not sure about the price.... It would def. cost a LOT more than a PVC job from Home Depot.... but it will also look a lot better. Annodizing or especially powdercoating would be an option.

I'm definitely going to make a prototype and see what the cost/time input would be. From there I can figure out what kind of a retail price we'd be looking at. Probably market it as such: Group buy as soon as the design is finalized and fitted to a truck (which would have to be someone besides me because I'm not interested in cutting a hole in my fender - although its possibly my boss would swing the cost of a junkyard fender... after all, if it'll mount up to my truck, on a certain area needs to be pristine) to use. After the group buy the units would be made and sold on a pre-order basis (although we might be able to stock one or two so you could get it right away, just that people might have to wait if we somehow got 4 orders in a week or two).

I'm going to be in the classroom all day today, but hopefully later this week / this weekend I can do some Google Sketchup and see what looks good and might work...

UPDATE: Just talked to me boss and co-worker, who viewed this thread and I've been given the go-ahead.

:welder: :welder: Hopefully I can update you guys this weekend with some design ideas. I'd like to have the input of TTORA as much as possible since we represent the bulk of people that will buy and use these.

[ah64id]

I would want one that flows very well. I would be using more for dust than for water, so enough flow that it wont affect perfomance on a normal day is important.

[jbhowat]

I would want one that flows very well. I would be using more for dust than for water, so enough flow that it wont affect perfomance on a normal day is important.

As long as the ID never gets smaller than the ID of the stock tube that goes to the throttle body I don't think it would be a problem. Obviously it won't be flow-tested as we don't have that kind of resource- but yes low resistance would be achievable.

[ah64id]

As long as the ID never gets smaller than the ID of the stock tube that goes to the throttle body I don't think it would be a problem. Obviously it won't be flow-tested as we don't have that kind of resource- but yes low resistance would be achievable.

I think it depends on smooth bends as well, which will be harder with metal.. but not un do able

[jbhowat]

I think it depends on smooth bends as well, which will be harder with metal.. but not un do able

There is pretty much going to be a 90 degree bend in it - just like the Safari ones have, it has to come out of the fender and turn immediately.

[Dick Foster]

Made from aluminum sheet metal it would also be bending and denting a lot from banging into low hanging tree limbs and such.

[jbhowat]

Made from aluminum sheet metal it would also be bending and denting a lot from banging into low hanging tree limbs and such.

Depends on how thick the aluminum is. We're talking about what would be very small pieces here (if we didn't go with the semi-round idea, which you're right would dent easy as hell). If you have a strip of aluminum thats only a few inches wide and is welded on all four corners, I doubt a tree limb is going to do anything (and if it would, it would like cause damage to the a-piller and/or windshield)

[Crazy Geologist]

This is encouraging to hear. Keep us posted on the progress.

[cedarbarn]

This is encouraging to hear. Keep us posted on the progress.

X2

[SilverSeven]

I do think a 05+ snorkel is a great idea

[Hilux_MAX]

Hey fella's, just came across this snorkel thread. Almost every fourby thats modified in Australia runs a snorkel for both water and dust. Its cheap insurance and Ive seen what water through a stock airbox in a diesel can do to the engine, and it aint pretty or cheap either!

Heres my rig, four weeks old with a safari snorkel I got the dealer to fit before I picked her up. Not exactly sure how much it cost but a it would have been about 450-500 aussie dollars. Note also, that ARB prices have jumped quiet a bit since last year, between 200-400 bux on their bullbars, so it pays to shop around.

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h68/mmaaxx1977/01082007111.jpg


I'll be fitting an ARB Winchbar in black towards the end of this week to her!

:2cents:

[tacosupreme]

Too bad those won't fit our trucks. Looks nice.

[heeltoe989]

I'm in for a snorkel!!!!

[Fonz]

id buy one instantly

[Fish_Taco]

if one came out i would for sure buy one.

[offroadcoma]

yah sign me up. i want one on each side of the truck.one for function one for the hell of it.

[darkhill240]

i like the idea of two snorkels, but you also need twin coming out like a semi truck, then a roof top wind deflector for when you have to haul a heavy duty duty, gotta look the part right?

i know that was a tad extreme but so is two snorkels, i just being fr the hell of it

[rufio]

id buy one instantly

x2

[SilverSeven]

i like the idea of two snorkels, but you also need twin coming out like a semi truck, then a roof top wind deflector for when you have to haul a heavy duty duty, gotta look the part right?

i know that was a tad extreme but so is two snorkels, i just being fr the hell of it

dont forget the train horns

[Fonz]

fuck it, i think im just gonna try and make one, doesnt seem like ARB is going to even consider it again

[offroadcoma]

Some on with some clout contact TRD and have them make one....make one for the X-Runner too,while there at it.

[darkhill240]

dont forget the train horns


thinking small, dual roof mounted air horns


i'm in the process of making one, looks like i hhave to bit the bullet and buy the arb head, anyone find cheaper than $50 shipped?

[Ebruddah]

I wonder if this will fit on a Tacoma 05+

With the variety of engine options available in the Hilux, Safari took the decision to design a snorkel system that exceeded the air flow requirements of each engine configuration, including the D-4D and powerful 4.0 L V6 gasoline engine.


http://www.safarisnorkel.com/snorkel/ss125hf/ss125hf.htm (http://www.safarisnorkel.com/snorkel/ss125hf/ss125hf.htm)

[tacosupreme]

it will "fit", just not well. The fenders are way different. Order one and tell us how it works out.

[Ebruddah]

it will "fit", just not well. The fenders are way different

That's a damn shame...

[cuteo100]

Late-model Tacomas are the best selling mid-size truck in America. And Safari chooses not to make a kit for it. VERY SHAMEFUL!

[motochain]

I wish I had the money, I'd start producing them myself!! Make a shit ton of money!!

Takes money to make money..

[TACODOC]

Late-model Tacomas are the best selling mid-size truck in America. And Safari chooses not to make a kit for it. VERY SHAMEFUL!

Yep. Going on 3 years and I'm still waiting for SOMEONE to produce a snorkel... :rolleyes:

[fast frank]

Two years ago I responded to this thread.

On page one I said:

"Right now, I would have to say NO! I'm not putting that crap on my shiny new truck.

In a year or two, that will probably change. It's not going to be brand new forever."

Well, it's been two years.

My truck isn't shiny-new any more. It's got 50 thousand miles on it.

And there's still no way I'm going to put that crap on my truck!

I'll check back in two more years and see how I feel then.:D

[motochain]

Nobody is holding a gun to your head.... The people normally want it because of it's function.

[TACODOC]

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/creek.jpg

[AWDios]

After looking at my filter the other day I gotta think I would benefit from one. My fab skills suck.

[cuteo100]

Safari, are you reading this? According to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Tacoma#U.S_Sales

In 2005, Toyota Motor Corporation sold 189,987 Tacoma's.
In 2006, it sold 235,822 Tacoma's.
Over just the 3 summer months of 2007, Toyota broke records selling over 60,000 Tacomas.
With this trend, the rest of 2007 and then 2008 will bring an unseen record sale number for the Tacoma's.

It trailed Ford Ranger by 2.2% in 2004 but in 2005, it lead by 40% and by 2006, it left the Ranger in the dust with 93% as the leader.

For Safari to turned a blind eye to the new Tacoma's is just pure INSANE! Perhaps someone at Volante can take over this opportunity!

[cuteo100]

If you would like to change the situation, email the top dogs here:

Mr. Ben Shaw
Safari Automotive Technologies
Phone : +61 3 9761 7244
Info@safari4x4.com.au

and also CC a copy to:

Mr. Scott Cohen
ARB USA
Customer Service Manager
scohen@arbusa.com

And tell them how you really feel! :saw:

[AWDios]

Alas they're going to base it on snorkle sales, not truck sales. Just because there are more Tacomas out there doesn't mean they'd sell more snorkles. They're going off poor sales of the previous model and the fact that they'd really need to get a US truck to Australia to fab one up. From a business stand point I understand how this doesn't make sense to them. We need to find a US based company that will make them.

[TACODOC]

Nissan Frontier gets a snorkel... :confused:
Only $278...

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/93003ec8676154bd800f63ea03e8c971.jpg

Nissan Titan gets a snorkel...

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/titansnorkel.jpg

They even have one for the Hardbody and the Xterra...

4x4 Parts.com - Your #1 Resource for Nissan Aftermarket Parts! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - (http://www.4x4parts.com/public_html/shop/index.php3?page=shop/flypage&product_id=4175&category_id=f9d8a87925d843840e8ac32a498b260c)

Now why doesnt someone make a damn snorkel for 05 and up Toyota Tacomas???

[TACODOC]

Safari Snorkel now makes a snorkel for the FJ Cruiser...

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/3_4_front_fj.jpg

...But they STILL don't make one for the 05+Tacoma!

So, we need to keep this idea alive at our level and keep after them especially as our numbers grow!

SOMEBODY NEEDS TO MAKE A TACOMA SNORKEL!!!

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/creek-1.jpg

[voodoochile]

How the frick can they justify a fitment for a Titan, yet not the Tacoma??? I'd love to see the marketing research on that.

[cell4soul]

My guess is the Frontier and Titan share the same body in Australia as it does in the US. Not sure, only a guess. If so, they would sell a lot more of them and have a truck for the design and engineering. Also, the FJ 40 will be the same in each country that it is sold in. The Tacoma is a US, Mexico and Canada thing only; everywhere else it is the Hilux. Unlike other countries, the US, Mexico and Canada have very little use for snorkels other than the off road communities. In many other countries, river crossings are a part of normal everyday driving. Don't get me wrong, I would love to have one. I just think that Safari is probably looking at all of these factors as well. I emailed them several times over a year and a half ago (before I drove to Panama and back), and I had the same response as everyone else. I don't see their stance changing, but I'll keep my fingers crossed.

[TACODOC]

There is a guy over on ExPo who has found a way around Safari Snorkel's blockade, here is what he posted there:

ENGINE 3RZ-FE 2.7Litre-I4
SNORKEL #SS135HF
TRUCK IT WAS MADE FOR HILUX 167 SERIES 12/97 TO 3/05

I DID THE RESEARCH FIRST E-MAILED SAFARI TECH, THEY SAID DONT DO IT AND THAT THEY WOULD NOT SUPPLY ANY INFO ON THE 135. I.E. ANGLE LENGTH TO THE AIR BOX OPENING.
LUCKY ME THE SHOP A WAS WORKING AT JUST HAPPENED TO HAVE A 135 SITTING ON THE SHELF I TALKED WITH THE BOSS AND WAS WILLING TO DRILL THE HOLES. JUST SO HAPPENS THAT IT FIT PERFECT I MEAN THE ANGLE WAS RIGHT THE INDENTION ON THE SNORKEL FOR THE ANTENA WAS RIGHT IT FIT QUITE WELL. IT NEEDED SOME FINAGLING TO FIT THE RUBBER HOSE TO THE AIR BOX IN THE INNER FENDER BUT IT IS IN AND LOOKS LIKE IT WAS MADE FOR THE 05+ TACOMAS. I IMAGINE THAT THE 135 WILL WORK FOR THE 4 OR 6 CYLINER BOTH HAVING A US PASS SIDE AIR BOX.

Here is his rig with it on.
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/zolo.jpg

[AWDios]

SWEET! Someone should send that to Safari so they know that it really wouldn't be hard to sell it.

[Sammyboy363]

Is this a photoshop? or is this legit. I am soo in for one, in a year mabey? I have to let her grow up a little first.

[TACODOC]

Is this a photoshop? or is this legit. I am soo in for one, in a year mabey? I have to let her grow up a little first.

100% Legit. :cool:

More pics/info on the fender to 1GR-FE airbox fitment issue is coming soon, stay tuned.

[taco4x4rar]

Finally i found somthing i actually want for x-mass. Thing fits like a glove, where can i get one just did a quick look and it look but not finding anything.

[darkhill240]

safarisnorkel.com

[viter]

here are pics from the thread TACODOC pointed out..
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=12692&d=1196303629
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=12693&d=1196303629
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=12694&d=1196303629

the thread itself is here on expedition portal forum - http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2599&page=3

[darkhill240]

There is a guy over on ExPo who has found a way around Safari Snorkel's blockade, here is what he posted there:



Here is his rig with it on.
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/zolo.jpg

what bumper is that? mt. kennesaw?

[viter]

so to sum thigns up from the expo thread:

you can buy a snorkel that seems to fit 05+ tacomas really well for $305 from here - http://www.sierraexpeditions.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=439
or elsewhere

the safari snorkel model is:
"ENGINE 3RZ-FE 2.7Litre-I4
SNORKEL #SS135HF
TRUCK IT WAS MADE FOR HILUX 167 SERIES 12/97 TO 3/05"


here are some extra instructions from the guy (Zolo on expo forum) who did it first:
"1- the templat that comes with the 135 needs to only be used for drilling the holes in relation to each other. I.E. to find were the snorkel needs to be on the fender you must align it with the antenna base!2- so what i did was put all the studs in the snorkel first. then i aligned the antenna base with the indention on the snorkel and marked the rear stud hole location. after they were marked I placed the template up to the fender aligning the rear marked holes to find the location on the fender for the other studs and 4" hole.
this is very important! once the rear holes are marked trust the template but measure and recheck like 100 times"

now don't be lazy and click the link to see more pics - http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2599&page=3

[AWDios]

I want to see one or two other people try it, preferably a V6. If it hasn't been done by June, I'll probably just take the plunge myself.

[redhottaco]

I just put the SS135HF on my christmas list, and my tax return list, and my overtime goodies list. let's just say it's on the list. One question, do you think it will work with fiberglass, I might end up going long-travel in the future. The connection from snorkel to the airbox is rubber so it should be a little flexible and if not that perticular part could easily be faked to work right. My biggest concern is how the fiberglass body lines would effect the snorkel.

[darkhill240]

I just put the SS135HF on my christmas list, and my tax return list, and my overtime goodies list. let's just say it's on the list. One question, do you think it will work with fiberglass, I might end up going long-travel in the future. The connection from snorkel to the airbox is rubber so it should be a little flexible and if not that perticular part could easily be faked to work right. My biggest concern is how the fiberglass body lines would effect the snorkel.

i'm tjinking the same thing, i already have glass. more worried about the glass supporting the snorkel

[viter]

I think the snorkel is realatively light and mounts to the fender with 6-8 bolts, so probably if you just use large fender washers to spread the load on fiber glass you will not have to worry too much about breaking it. now, if the body lines of the fiberglass fender match the stock body lines or not - I doubt it, but don't really know...

[mr.trd]

Look at the way the snorkel fits on the older tacoma with glass. It doesn't, well it does, but changes the look of it completely. I moves the base out to far and just looks goofy IMO....

[darkhill240]

any have some pics of the older ones with glass and a snorkel

[mr.trd]

http://www.tacomaterritory.com/forum/showthread.php?t=11167&highlight=snorkel+on+fiberglass

http://mikeharan.net/images/bbsimages/oops/107_0703.JPG

http://mikeharan.net/images/bbsimages/oops/107_0705.JPG

http://mikeharan.net/images/bbsimages/oops/107_0718.JPG

http://mikeharan.net/images/bbsimages/oops/107_0719.JPG

[AWDios]

yeah I wouldn't bet it would work well on ours considering it looks like it has much more contact with the fender than the old ones.

[TACODOC]

Look what I found at my front door today!

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/slogo_anim_250.gif


http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/snorkel1.jpg

[AWDios]

Thank You For Being The V6 Guinea Pig!!

[TACODOC]

Looking at it now that it is here... it will take some small adjustments, but this is really not that hard to make work.

[Hoss]

Sweet. I'm requesting a stellar write-up on this as my finger is on the order trigger.

[GMAK]

dont mess up your first cut. :)

[crolison]

dont drill into your antenna like i did

[L.A.Fire]

The 05' would work for the 06 right.. Same thing...

[Rangerpeterson]

I'll buy one if the price is right. Like some of the other are saying price is a big factor but if its reasonable then yep, put me down for one!

[Rylee]

count me in for one.

[cell4soul]

Looking at it now that it is here... it will take some small adjustments, but this is really not that hard to make work.

Very nice Dave. Hit me up if you need a hand, I don't live that far and don't have much going today or tomorrow....I'd love to take part in this install.

Gerrit

[dave_dave]

i need one. i've already been through one 05 engine because of a poorly designed air intake system. i'm surprized others don't have the same problem.

[TACODOC]

There's a hole in my fender!!!

Preliminary fit of the SS135HFD is a success.

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/sheetmetalhole.jpg

Stay tuned for a full write up with detailed pics and lessons learned.

Thanks to Kurt at Cruiser Outfitters for helping to make this project possible.

If you need a Safari Snorkel SS135HFD, Kurt is the man to talk to!

http://www.cruiseroutfitters.com/

[cole45]

Right now, I would have to say NO! I'm not putting that crap on my shiny new truck.

In a year or two, that will probably change. It's not going to be brand new forever.

I'm thinking that most '05 owners will think the same way.

I would say "Build them" in a few years the market will be the same as it is now for the old style trucks.

Fast Frank

So it's been several years since this thread started, have you changed your mind yet?

[TACODOC]

I am in mid write up and when I have finished the detailed "how to" with pics, we will have an install guide to rival anything on the Safari Snorkel website ;)

I test drove it last night and with the complete watertight install there are no ECU issues, CEL's or other anomalies...

There is plenty of air as it is now a "forced intake" with the scoop on the snorkel vice the smallish "snout" on the stock intake that was drawing air from inside the fender.

I am very pleased with both the look of the the install and the functionality.

[AWDios]

Sweet.

[mr.trd]

Subscribed once again to this thread....

[TACODOC]

To avoid posting duplicates, the write up will be posted in my Garage thread here on TTORA as well as my build thread on Expedition Portal ;)

[TACODOC]

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_3282.jpg

[taco4x4rar]

Sweeeeeeet!

[TACODOC]

Read my complete SS135HFD Install Guide here:
http://www.cruiseroutfitters.com/tech_2ndgenTaco_snorkel.html

[TacoN8]

By looking at the instructions, it looks as if the kit should work for the 4cyl as well. Do you see any problems mounting this kit to a 2.7 4cyl?

[TACODOC]

By looking at the instructions, it looks as if the kit should work for the 4cyl as well. Do you see any problems mounting this kit to a 2.7 4cyl?

None at all, although the under hood connection will be different... it is still the same basic concept.

[j-mca]

looks great! have you noticed a diferance in gas milage at all?

[cell4soul]

Dave, just read your full write up........amazing job and you are thorough to say the least. Have you done the differential breather mod yet? If not, probably would be a good idea as well.

[TACODOC]

Dave, just read your full write up........amazing job and you are thorough to say the least. Have you done the differential breather mod yet? If not, probably would be a good idea as well.

Yes, the diff breather was one of my first mods.

[SAR_Squid79]

AWESOME WORK, Dave!

I didn't realize that you were mating a Hilux Kit to your Tacoma.

Great job! Very Professional! :kewl: