Why Running Vent Lines is a Must When Snorkeling Your Honda ATV

September 8, 2025

ByChris Nichols 0 Comments

Why Running Vent Lines is a Must When Snorkeling Your Honda ATV

When you take your Honda ATV into the mud, water, or swampy trails, one of the first upgrades you’ll hear about is a snorkel kit. A properly installed snorkel system raises your intake and allows your engine to breathe even when submerged. But here’s something a lot of riders overlook: vent lines.

Running vent lines is just as important as the snorkel itself—and skipping this step can lead to costly damage. Let’s break down why vent lines are a must when snorkeling your Honda ATV.

What Are Vent Lines?

Your Honda ATV comes with factory vent lines that allow different components—like the carburetor, fuel tank, front and rear differentials, and transmission—to “breathe.” These lines release built-up pressure and prevent seals from blowing out.

The problem? From the factory, most vent lines are short and sit low on the machine. That means when you hit deep mud or water, they can suck in moisture, grit, and contaminants.

Why Extend Vent Lines When Snorkeling?

1. Protects Your Differentials & Transmission
   Water in your diffs or transmission fluid is a recipe for disaster. Extending vent lines high and tying them into your snorkel system keeps these components dry, reducing the risk of bearing and gear damage.

2. Prevents Hydro-Lock & Fuel Issues
   The carb and fuel tank vent lines are small but critical. If water gets in, your machine can stall, run rough, or worse—hydro-lock. Extending them gives your ATV a fighting chance against deep crossings.

3. Keeps Pressure Balanced
   Vent lines aren’t just about keeping water out. They also regulate internal pressure. Without them, you risk blowing out seals, which leads to leaks and costly repairs.

4. Completes the Snorkel System
   A snorkel kit alone isn’t enough. Think of vent lines as the finishing touch—without them, you’re leaving your ATV vulnerable. A true mud-ready setup includes both snorkels and extended vent lines.

How to Run Vent Lines on Your Honda ATV

• Use Quality Hose: Fuel line or clear polyurethane tubing works well.

• Route High: Zip-tie them along the frame and run them up near your snorkels or handlebars.

• Bundle Together: Keep them neat with zip ties or a small manifold.

• Check Often: Over time, mud and debris can clog vents—make it part of your maintenance routine.

The Bottom Line

If you’re serious about mud riding with your Honda ATV, vent lines aren’t optional—they’re essential. Running them protects your investment, keeps you riding longer, and ensures your snorkel kit actually does its job.

At Vessel Powersports, we specialize in making Honda riders mud-ready. Whether you’re looking for snorkel kits, floorboards, or crush locks, we’ve got you covered with proven parts and rider-tested knowledge.

👉 Want to take your Honda to the next level? Check out our full line of Honda ATV snorkel kits and protect your machine the right way.

Chris Nichols