I understand, but I've crossed standing water (flooded road formed when we got 6" of rain) that was about as deep as the upper edge of the front bumper. I tip-toed through, and once across, rigged a tow strap to pull out an ancient 1989 Isuzu Trooper that died due to water splashing onto his ignition system.

It's all about how you approach the obstacle. As I said before, know the depth and drive very slowly.

Jeep states a very conservation 19" of water. They do that to mitigate liability. The fact is that the JK will ford much deeper water, but you must exercise due diligence.

 

Will a snorkel prevent any possible ways of hydro-locking? Is it impossible with a snorkel?

 

No it is not impossible with a snorkel, just a lot less likely. My thoughts are with anyone who has hydrolocked, but the jeep is still pretty darn capable. Experience, caution and speed are all related to many things happening to our jeeps. accept what has happened and plan for your future offroad excursions. there is no excuse for stupidity and accidends do happen, just be as prepared as you can be. one of the first mods i did was add a snorkel, never know when it will be needed. still have to extend the breathers. no water today, but there will be.
heres a pic of the engine compartment that shows how the water and slime can get thrown arround. get a snorkel, best preventative medicine for hydrolocking there is. or you could just do what i did to start with