2005 Durango Water taken into Hemi Engine

I have a 2005 model and after going through a pool of water (8 inches to 1 foot deep) I am being told water caused the engine to blow. Any knowledge on why or what about this would help. The car's front end went through and then died by the rear wheels. Told that water went into air handler after being "splashed" up.

I guess that puddle was a $5000 driving mistake for you.
I sounds like you experienced a "Hydro-lock". That is when you suck up water in the intake and a large amount makes it to the cylinders. Since water can't be compressed, the engine is abruptly stopped in the compression stroke. Sometimes pulling the plugs out and cranking the engine can clear it out enough to get it going again. Most times though something gets bent or broken and the engine (or major components) have to be replaced. Warranty doesn't cover damage caused by taking the engine for a swim.

I guess that puddle was a $5000 driving mistake for you.
I sounds like you experienced a "Hydro-lock". That is when you suck up water in the intake and a large amount makes it to the cylinders. Since water can't be compressed, the engine is abruptly stopped in the compression stroke. Sometimes pulling the plugs out and cranking the engine can clear it out enough to get it going again. Most times though something gets bent or broken and the engine (or major components) have to be replaced. Warranty doesn't cover damage caused by taking the engine for a swim.

Thanks for the info. Now my second concern. I guess now I need to measure the depth of any water I go through. In Florida we get some heavy rain and puddles in the middle of a street. Why is this different for a truck. Are there splash guards that protects from water splashing up? Why would a car / truck not have the same safeguard?

Any opinions would help. second note: the dealer just ordered my new engine

Is the Air Intake stock?
Some people install aftermarket "Cold Air Kits" on their vehicles. These are well known for the problem you are having. Usually the stock air intake is guarded fairly well against water, that is probably why the aftermarket kits have better flow and HP, they are of a open element design.