A Water Horse it's NOT!

[CarolinaExplorer]

I have an 87 BII that is mainly stock. 2.9, automatic, 2" sus lift and 31s. The other day my son and daughter and I were doing a little mild off roading. We went into an unknown water hole and it was way deeper than I thought. We got through easily enough, but as soon as we cleared it the engine sputtered and died. After a few minutes it did start, and idled smoothly enough, but when I tried to engage the tranny, it made a terrible sound, and the engine died. This happened several times, until finally we walked out, got a ride, went home and got my 93 Explorer, thinking we would tow it home. Well, we got back and it started, and the tranny engaged perfectly. Ended up driving it home. I guess my question is, has this type of thing happened to any of you, and also, without going to extremes, what can I do to waterproof the thing? Any input is welcome, thanks!

 

[boominXplorer]

Now change all your fluids that could have been contaminated, you could have trash in your tranny. There is a dipstick vent tube you can extend to the engine bay.

 

[rookieshooter]

Here's one of several vents I have extended up. This one is for the front differential.