Fording Depth and Technique for Newbies

Is there a factory specified fording depth for a 2013? Also what is the best practice for crossing water at or close to this depth (hi-lock and hammer down, low-lock and slow, rear diff locked, etc.)?

The last time I crossed a stream in a truck I was 20 and was driving a '78 Bronco with 35's at full throttle. Very fun, but safety of the passengers and vehichle were afterthoughts.

I have already done the rear diff vent relocation - now vents to the DS storage compartment in the bed.

 

I don't know specifically how deep you can go stock but I wouldn't push it too far. When I do have to go through water, I go slow and steady.

 

How wet do you want to get? I'd limit your truck to that. The intake IS higher than the bottom of the cab but I wouldn't go much past the bottom of the cab.

Go at it moderately slow but steady, and 4 low locked is a good plan depending on what the bottom is like. Many times you may get through in 2 but... walk it and see.

 

Go look under the hood, and note where the intake tube goes into the fender. That is the ultimate depth of fording capability. Remember which side it's on when you get cranked over in off camber situations. I've had mine way to deep, almost there, chugged right on through. About half way up the door, twice, no leaks.