Fitting a 4” Stainless Snorkel with Fabulous Fabrications

When it comes to building a capable touring rig, airflow is just as important as clearance or power. After finishing my suspension upgrade, the next mod on my list was a snorkel and airbox setup to improve performance and protect the engine from dust and water crossings.

I teamed up with the crew at Fabulous Fabrications to install a 4-inch short-entry stainless steel snorkel, paired with a pod filter airbox. Not only does it give the BT-50 a tough new look, but it’s also one of those mods that completely changes the way the vehicle feels — and sounds!

Installation Process:

We went with a 4-inch short-entry stainless steel snorkel paired with a pod filter airbox, designed to maximise airflow while keeping the setup compact and clean.

I was there throughout the entire process, which made it even more exciting to watch come together — and yes, I even got to help drill into the guard! It’s one of those moments that makes your stomach flip a little, but the team made it look effortless. Seeing that first hole go in was both nerve-wracking and incredibly satisfying.

Once the holes were cut and everything was lined up, the Fabulous Fabrications team began fitting the snorkel in place. Watching the precision and attention to detail was seriously impressive — every measurement and adjustment was spot-on.

Under the bonnet, the pod filter airbox was installed to tie the whole setup together. It all came together seamlessly.

The result is a setup that not only looks tough but performs even better. The raised air intake means better protection on dusty or wet tracks, while the improved airflow has given the BT noticeably sharper throttle response — and that snorkel sound is next level!

Why I Chose Fabulous Fabrications:

I’d seen Fabulous Fabrications’ work popping up all over the 4WD scene, and their reputation for precision stainless work and custom setups really stood out.

Their snorkels aren’t just functional — they’re built to last and designed to look like part of the vehicle, not an afterthought.

When it came time to install mine, I wanted a team that knew their craft inside and out, and these guys absolutely delivered.

From the moment I arrived, they walked me through every step of the process, explained how the setup would work, and made sure everything was tailored perfectly to my BT-50.

Being able to watch the install (and even get hands-on for a few moments) gave me a whole new appreciation for the level of skill that goes into their work. Every weld, every bend, every fitment was done with absolute care — and it’s easy to see why they’ve built such a strong name in the 4WD community.

Why I Added a Snorkel:

A snorkel has always been high on my list of upgrades — not just for the look, but for the practicality. Touring around Australia means constantly driving through dust, mud, and the occasional deep water crossing, so raising the air intake is a must for protecting the engine and keeping clean air flowing.

The 4-inch short entry stainless snorkel paired with the pod filter airbox isn’t just about function though — it completely changes the way the BT-50 feels to drive. The airflow improvement is noticeable, with the engine breathing easier and responding quicker.

And then there’s the sound. The stainless snorkel gives off that deep, satisfying turbo whistle every time I accelerate — it’s seriously addictive. It’s one of those mods that makes you smile every time you turn the key, and it’s now easily one of my favourite additions to the build so far.

Final Thoughts:

Installing the snorkel with Fabulous Fabrications was such a rewarding experience — not just because of how it turned out, but because I got to be part of the process.

It’s always nerve-wracking drilling into your own vehicle, but seeing the precision and care that went into every step made it all worth it.

The end result completely transformed the BT-50. The raised air intake gives me peace of mind on dusty tracks and through water crossings, while the improved airflow has noticeably sharpened throttle response.

And the sound — that deep turbo whistle through the stainless pipe — never gets old.

This mod isn’t just about performance; it’s about adding another layer of reliability and personality to my build.

The BT looks tougher, breathes better, and is now even more ready for the adventures ahead. Big thanks to the Fabulous Fabrications team for bringing it all to life.

Sarah Rose Foster