Honda Rancher 420 Snorkel Kits - Benefits, Top Brands, FAQs

Introduction to the Honda Rancher 420 Snorkel

Installing a snorkel kit on a Honda Rancher 420 ATV allows the engine to breathe better when riding through mud, water, dust and snow. Snorkels raise the air intake so the engine can access cleaner air from higher up and away from debris on the ground. This prevents water ingestion issues when crossing streams or playing in deep mud holes.

Benefits of Adding a Snorkel to a Honda Rancher 420

There are several key benefits to installing a Honda Rancher 420 snorkel:

• Allows engine to breathe cleaner air from higher location to prevent ingestion of water, mud or dust
• Raises air intake box up near the handlebars away from wheel splash
• Keeps water out of the air box to prevent engine damage or stalls
• Enables riding through deeper water crossings without issues
• Easy to install with basic tools for most mechanically inclined owners

Without a snorkel kit, the air intake box sits vulnerable and low behind the front wheels on a stock Honda Rancher. Any water or mud that splashes up from the tires can get sucked right into the exposed air filter and cause problems.

How a Honda Rancher 420 Snorkel Works

A Honda Rancher 420 snorkel relocates the air intake box up high and away from water, dust and debris near the wheels and ground. It moves the air filter up to the front rack area by the handlebars and connects it via an enclosed intake tube.

This intake pipe has high mount points that position the opening well above the ATV fenders. By extending upwards, a snorkel takes advantage of clean and dry air before it gets contaminated by trail conditions down lower.

Typical Snorkel Kit Parts and Configuration

A full aftermarket Honda Rancher 420 snorkel kit generally contains the following components:

• Air intake box bracket & seals
• Intake hoses & vent lines
• Replacement high-flow air filter & housing
• Stainless steel hose clamps
• Mounting hardware as needed
• Instructions

The most important piece is the extended intake tube that runs a hose from the new raised airbox location down to the throttle body or air boot at the engine. This enclosed hose protects the intake path from water infiltration.

DIY Installation Tips

While most riders pay a dealer to install their Honda Rancher 420 snorkel kit, mechanically capable owners can perform the upgrade themselves in their garage or shop area. Here are some tips for DIY installation:

• Get a shop manual to reference diagrams & torque specs
• Use quality tools - don't risk rounded bolts or damaged parts
• Follow all instructions closely with no shortcuts
• Inspect all existing hoses, seals and gaskets; replace any worn parts
• Ensure proper sealing with clamps and mounting hardware
• Check for leaks after initial test rides

Taking the time to properly mount all components and secure intake paths against leaks is critical. One overlooked area can cause engine issues if water sneaks in.

Top Brands for Honda Rancher 420 Snorkel Kits

When shopping for the best Honda Rancher 420 snorkel kit, these leading brands offer excellent fitment and performance:

Quad Boss

Quad Boss makes very affordable snorkel kits with all necessary components. Their setups use thick durable plastic for intake boxes. Kits come with detailed directions for DIY installation.

Extreme Max

Known for heavy-duty snorkels built to withstand abuse on utility ATVs, Extreme Max kits include a washable foam air filter and stainless steel mounting plates.

High Lifter

Trusted name High Lifter has been making top-quality snorkels for years. Their Rancher 420 kit uses tall intake tubes and a large intake box for optimized airflow.

Works Connection

This brand is popular with racers and performance enthusiasts. The Works Connection setup offers configurable parts for custom routing based on riding style and conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high should the snorkel raise up?

Most Honda Rancher 420 snorkel kits position the opening around handlebar level or slightly higher. This prevents water ingestion even when riding in depths up to the floorboards or seat.

What about maintaining or accessing an elevated air filter?

Quality snorkel kits are designed for fast and easy air filter access. The best setups use a tool-less cover on the intake box for quick inspection without needing to uninstall components.

Will a snorkel kit void the manufacturer warranty?

Installing aftermarket parts like a Honda Rancher 420 snorkel does not automatically void the OEM warranty. However, damage or issues caused by an improperly installed accessory may not be covered.

Do I need to tune the ECU after adding a snorkel?

Most factory ECU maps can compensate automatically for the minor intake airflow changes from a snorkel kit. But some owners choose to optimize fueling with an aftermarket fuel controller or dyno tuning.

Conclusion

Adding a full Honda Rancher 420 snorkel kit enables owners to boost air intake protection without sacrificing performance. Protecting the engine from water or debris ingestion reduces the risk of damage during deep water crossings, while high-flow filters maintain responsiveness.

Carefully installing a snorkel kit as directed by the brand allows riding in more extreme conditions safely. Combined with engine and gearbox ventilation line extensions, this mod enables true worry-free operation in mud and streams.

FAQs

What size is the air filter in most aftermarket snorkel kits?

Many kits include high-flow conical filters in sizes ranging from 3” to 5” diameter. Larger filters flow more air and require less frequent cleaning.

How much does it cost to have a shop install a snorkel kit?

Figure roughly $200-400 for professional installation including parts and labor. DIY installation allows the mechanically inclined to save money but requires more effort.

What type of intake hose is best?

Look for thick durable plastic or rubber tubing rather than cheaper thin options that may collapse. Brands like Quad Boss use heavy duty reinforced hoses for intake plumbing.

Should I extend my engine vent hoses after installing the snorkel?

Yes, adding vent line extensions helps keep water out of the crankcase and gear housing. Make sure to properly route and secure any hoses under the seat away from heat or rotating components.