Hurricane Irene - Quick Answer

[Muddy Duck]

I'm in Eastern North Carolina riding out Irene. The water has risen past the point where I feel safe in my home (Bath, NC) and so I'm packed up and may head west away from the storm. My question is: in my 5th generation SR5 4wd, how deep of water can I ford? What is the best way to do this safely? Move slowly? Quickly? Stay in 4-low, 4-high or 2-high? I will be on pavement the whole time. A prompt answer is appreciated!

 

[Muddy Duck]

Also, one more request. Please pray. It's scary down here. Mother Nature is a b***h.

 

[enzo]

I haven't had to do this in my 5th Gen so I can't tell you about depth... but back in 2004 Hurricane Gaston flooded Richmond, I drove through water in my 1996 Rav4 AWD that was about two inches under my headlights (my Rav4 had some pretty decent ground clearance)... This was standing, not moving water. I didn't have any problems. My advice would be to keep a constant pace in 4L, fast enough to maintain the bow wave upfront but slow enough to make sure you still have road underneath you. Usual rule of thumb is 1 foot of water can float your vehicle.

Good luck, be safe!

 

[terra4r]

up to the door sills should be ok? 4h should be good, slower speed through deeper water (bow wave above good). diff breather mod would help in this situation!

We're riding it out too, hampton roads va. hitting you guys now, us very soon. good luck everyone.

Duck, if you haven't went anywhere yet, don't. This is the worst time for us. Use common sense and be safe.

 

[BmoreRunner]

Good luck Muddy Duck. Be safe. Bracing for ir here in MD.

 

[TOYSTRY]

diff breather mod would help

If you are gonna forge water you will want to do a diff breather mod as mentioned or drain your diff after you submerge them. Other than that, regrease all the chassis lube points afterwards.