Oil Catch Can: Shield Your Engine, Boost its Power

An oil catch can, also known as a crankcase breather separator, is a small canister installed in the PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) system of an internal combustion engine. Its primary function is to capture and collect excess oil vapor and contaminants that would otherwise be recirculated back into the intake manifold via the PCV valve.

What does an oil catch can do?

An oil catch can intercept and collect oil vapor and moisture from the crankcase ventilation system of an engine. It prevents this excess oil from entering the intake system and reduces carbon buildup.

Here’s what an oil catch can does:

1. Oil Vapor Separation:

The crankcase ventilation system allows gases, including oil vapors, to escape from the engine’s crankcase. An oil catch can intercepts these oil vapors before they can re-enter the intake system.

2. Preventing Oil Buildup in Intake System:

Without an oil catch can, oil vapors can accumulate in the intake system, leading to the formation of carbon deposits on intake valves, throttle bodies, and other components. The catch can prevents this buildup.

3. Reducing Carbon Deposits:

By capturing oil vapors, the catch can prevents the deposition of oil and carbon particles on critical engine components. This helps maintain cleaner and more efficient engine operation.

4. Promoting Better Combustion:

Cleaner intake components lead to better air and fuel mixture quality, promoting more efficient combustion. This can contribute to improved engine performance and fuel efficiency.

5. Preventing Intercooler and Turbocharger Contamination:

In forced induction systems, such as those with turbochargers or superchargers, oil vapors can contaminate the intercooler and reduce its efficiency. The oil catch can helps prevent this contamination.

6. Extending Engine Life:

By reducing the formation of carbon deposits and preventing oil contamination in critical engine parts, an oil catch can contribute to extending the overall lifespan of the engine.

7. Maintaining Emission System Performance:

Oil contamination in the intake system can negatively impact the performance of emission control systems. The use of an oil catch can helps maintain proper functionality of these systems.

8. Improved Aesthetics:

Some car enthusiasts also install oil catch cans for aesthetic reasons, especially in modified or high-performance vehicles. It adds a clean and organized look to the engine bay.

In engines, some amount of oil vapor can be present in the crankcase gases. In many modern engines, a positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system is used to route these gases back into the intake manifold to be burned off in the combustion process.

However, over time, this can lead to the buildup of oil and contaminants in the intake system, which can potentially reduce engine efficiency and increase the risk of carbon deposits.

In turbocharged or supercharged engines, the pressures and temperatures can be higher, increasing the risk of oil vapor entering the intake system.

An oil catch can can be particularly beneficial in these applications to help prevent oil buildup and potential performance issues.

What Is An Occ (Oil Catch Can)?

An Oil Catch Can (often abbreviated as OCC) is a device designed to prevent oil vapors and other contaminants from re-entering the intake system of an internal combustion engine.

It’s particularly common in turbocharged and direct-injected engines where blow-by gases can accumulate and potentially contaminate the intake charge.

How Do Oil Catch Cans Work?

An Oil Catch Can is installed in the line that would typically route these gases back to the intake system. As the gases pass through the catch can, they are forced to slow down, allowing the oil vapor to condense and collect inside the can. Cleaned gases then continue to the intake system, reducing the amount of oil and contaminants that enter the engine.

Types of Oil Catch Cans

Here’s a brief overview of the types:

Vincos Oil Catch Can

• Fit Type: Universal Fit
• Capacity: 400 ml

Description: With a capacity of 400 ml, it offers a substantial storage volume for captured oil and moisture.

EIGIIS Oil Catch Can

• Fit Type: Universal Fit
• Capacity: 300 ml

Description: Another universal fit oil catch can, the EIGIIS model has a slightly smaller capacity of 300 ml.

PQY Oil Catch Can

• Fit Type: Universal Fit
• Capacity: 150 ml

Description: The PQY oil catch can is designed for universal fitment and has a smaller capacity of 150 ml.

muge racing Oil Catch Can

• Fit Type: Universal Fit
• Capacity: 400 ml

Description: Similar to the Vincos model. It provides a universal fitment and a substantial storage volume.

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What Does An Oil Catch Can Do On A Diesel?

An oil catch can on a diesel engine captures and separates oil vapors from the crankcase ventilation system before they can recirculate into the intake manifold. This prevents oil from contaminating the intake, reducing carbon buildup, and improving overall engine efficiency and longevity.

Oil Catch Can Purpose: Benefits of Using an Oil Catch Can

Here are the primary purposes and benefits of using an oil catch can:

1. Prevent Oil Build-up in Intake System

In many engines, particularly those with direct fuel injection, oil vapor from the crankcase can accumulate in the intake system. An oil catch can intercepts these vapors, preventing them from depositing in the intake tract.

2. Reduce Carbon Deposits

By preventing oil vapors from reaching the intake valves, an oil catch can help reduce the formation of carbon deposits.

3. Maintain Performance

Accumulation of oil and carbon deposits can hinder airflow and disrupt the air-fuel mixture, potentially affecting engine performance.

4. Protect Turbocharged Engines

In turbocharged engines, the presence of oil in the intake system can be particularly problematic. Oil entering the turbo can cause fouling, reduce efficiency, and even lead to turbocharger failure.

5. Extend Engine Life

By reducing the accumulation of harmful deposits and contaminants in the intake system, an oil catch can contribute to extending the life of the engine.

6. Improved Combustion

Cleaner intake valves and a more consistent air-fuel mixture can lead to improved combustion, which can result in better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.

Is an Oil Catch Can Right for Your Engine?

Oil catch cans are not universally necessary for all engines. They are typically most beneficial for:

• Turbocharged or high-performance engines: These engines tend to generate more blow-by due to higher boost pressures and aggressive driving.
• Direct-injection engines: These engines inject fuel directly into the cylinder, bypassing the intake valves. This can lead to oil buildup on the valves because the fuel doesn’t wash away the oil as it does in port-injected engines.
• Engines prone to carbon buildup: Some engines are simply more susceptible to carbon buildup than others, regardless of the type of injection system.

Oil Catch Can Diagram

Here’s a breakdown of how an oil catch can works:

1. Blow-by: During normal engine operation, a small amount of combustion gases and oil vapor leaks past the piston rings and accumulates in the crankcase. This is called blow-by.
2. PCV System: The PCV system routes these crankcase gases through a valve and back into the intake manifold. This helps to reduce emissions and improve engine efficiency by burning the oil vapor as fuel.
3. Oil Catch Can: When an oil catch can is installed, the PCV valve route is intercepted. The oil vapor and gases pass through the catch can first, where baffles and filters separate the oil from the air. The clean air then continues on to the intake manifold, while the captured oil accumulates in the can.

Oil Catch Can Problems

While they are beneficial in preventing oil buildup in the intake manifold and other parts of the engine, there can be issues associated with their use or installation. Here are some potential problems:

1. Improper Installation

If the catch can is not installed correctly, it may not function as intended. This could lead to oil not being effectively captured, defeating the purpose of having the can in the first place.

2. Maintenance Neglect

Like many other parts of a vehicle, oil catch cans require periodic maintenance. If the can becomes full and is not emptied regularly, it can cause a backup in the PCV system, potentially leading to other problems.

3. Restriction of Airflow

An improperly designed or clogged catch can may restrict airflow in the PCV system, which could negatively impact engine performance.

4. Leaks

Over time, the connections or seals on the catch can may develop leaks. This can lead to a mess under the hood and may also cause a noticeable oil burning smell.

5. Legal and Emission Concerns

In some regions or under certain regulations, modifications to the PCV system, including the addition of a catch can, may not be legal for on-road vehicles. Additionally, removing oil from the PCV system can affect emissions, potentially leading to a vehicle failing an emissions test.

6. Compatibility Issues

Not all catch cans are designed to be universal. Using a catch can that’s not compatible with a specific vehicle or engine type can lead to fitment issues or ineffective operation.

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Why Are Oil Catch Cans Illegal?

• Modifying Emission Systems: Oil catch cans alter the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system, an integral part of a vehicle’s emission control.
• Emission Reduction: The PCV system’s primary role is to diminish harmful emissions by reintroducing them to the engine for combustion.
• Illegal Modifications: Installing an oil catch can inherently disrupts the PCV system’s design, leading to legal concerns as it changes an emissions component.
• Pollution Control: Oil catch cans are perceived as pollution control devices. Their function is to capture and store oils that might otherwise pollute the environment.
• Environmental Risk: The accumulation and containment of oil within these cans can pose potential environmental threats if not managed properly.

Why Don’t Cars Come With Oil Catch Cans?

Oil catch cans are not standard in cars because they are complex to integrate, not essential for basic operation, relatively expensive, and might raise legal or emission concerns.

Manufacturers prioritize cost-effectiveness and regulatory compliance, making them optional or aftermarket additions for enthusiasts seeking specific benefits.

How To Install A Oil Catch Can

Here’s a general guide on how to install an oil catch can:

Step 1: Prepare the Mounting Surface

If you need to drill holes for mounting, do so now. Ensure that the mounting surface is clean and free from any debris or oils.

Step 2: Mount the Catch Can

Use the provided hardware to securely mount the catch can in the chosen location. Make sure it’s mounted upright to ensure proper function.

Step 3: Locate the Breather Hose

Find the breather hose that connects the valve cover to the intake manifold. This is typically a rubber hose.

Step 4: Disconnect the Hose

Using pliers, carefully disconnect the breather hose from the intake manifold. Be cautious as some oil may drip out.

Step 5: Install the Catch Can in the Hose Path

Install the catch can into the path of the breather hose. Cut the hose if necessary to fit the catch can in between.

Attach one end of the hose to the valve cover and the other end to the intake manifold using the fittings provided in the kit.

Step 6: Secure the Hoses

Use zip ties or hose clamps to secure the hoses in place, ensuring there are no leaks.

Step 7: Check for Clearance

Ensure that the hoses do not interfere with any moving parts or get pinched when the engine is running.

Step 8: Inspect and Test

Double-check all connections and fittings. Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Check for any leaks or issues.

When Should I Install A Oil Catch Can?

Here are some situations when you might consider installing an oil catch can:

• Performance Upgrades
• Turbocharged or Supercharged Engines
• Direct Injection Engines
• High Mileage Engines
• Preventive Maintenance
• Track or Heavy Use
• Environmental Concerns
• Improved Efficiency
• Maintenance and Longevity
• Manufacturer Recommendations

What Is The Difference Between 1 And 2 Oil Catch Cans?

A Single Valve Oil Catch Can collects vapors primarily during idle. In contrast, a Dual Catch Can has two outlets: the first functions similarly to a Single Can, while the second utilizes vacuum created post-throttle use.

Number of Chambers:

• Single can: Has one chamber where both incoming blow-by gases and filtered air exit.
• Dual can: Has two chambers. One chamber separates oil from the gases. The other separates any remaining oil mist from the clean air before it exits to the intake manifold.

Efficiency:

• Single can: Less efficient, especially at high-RPM and boost conditions. Can still allow some oil mist to pass through with the clean air.
• Dual can: More efficient at trapping oil mist thanks to the additional filtering stage. Offers potentially cleaner air returning to the intake manifold.

Performance Benefits:

• Single can: Can offer some benefits like reducing overall oil buildup and extending engine oil life.
• Dual can: May provide increased horsepower gains and improved engine longevity due to significantly cleaner air entering the intake.

Installation Complexity:

• Single can: Requires installing two hoses – one from the PCV valve and one to the intake manifold.
• Dual can: Needs three hoses – one from the PCV valve, one from the first chamber to the second, and one from the second chamber to the intake manifold.

Cost:

• Single can: Generally cheaper than a dual can.
• Dual can: More expensive due to the added complexity and materials.

Choosing the Right Option:

• Single can: Suitable for lightly modified or naturally aspirated engines where moderate oil catch benefits are desired.
• Dual can:Dual catch cans are often recommended for high-performance or forced-induction (turbocharged or supercharged) engines where there is an increased volume of crankcase gases.

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How Do You Know When A Catch Can Is Full?

When it comes to determining if a catch can is full, several methods can be employed:

1. Visual Inspection

Most catch cans are transparent or have a sight glass that allows you to see the level of the collected fluid. If the canister is full or nearing its capacity, you’ll be able to see the collected liquid reaching the top.

2. Volume Indicators

Some catch cans come with volume indicators or markings on the side, showing the amount of fluid that has been collected. By checking these indicators against the current fluid level, you can determine how full the catch can is.

3. Maintenance Schedule

Depending on the vehicle’s usage and the efficiency of the catch can, you might want to establish a maintenance schedule.

4. Performance Indicators

If you notice a decrease in engine performance or see smoke or oil residue from the exhaust, it could indicate that the catch can is full or malfunctioning.

Potential Drawbacks and Limitations of Oil Catch Can

Here are some potential drawbacks and limitations of using an oil catch can:

• Maintenance Requirement: An oil catch can needs regular maintenance.
• System Complexity: Installing an oil catch can adds an additional component to the engine’s system.
• Potential for Oil Overflow: If the oil catch can becomes full and is not emptied in a timely manner, there is a risk of oil overflow.
• Compatibility Issues: Not all engines or vehicles may be compatible with oil catch can installations due to space constraints.
• Emission Concerns: While it may reduce the amount of oil and contaminants entering the intake, it could also alter the engine’s emissions characteristics.
• Misuse or Incorrect Installation: If not installed correctly or if not used as intended, an oil catch can may not effectively capture oil vapors.
• Cost: Depending on the quality and design, some oil catch cans can be relatively expensive.
• Effectiveness Variability: The effectiveness of an oil catch can can vary depending on factors such as driving conditions, engine type, and maintenance practices.

FAQ

What does an oil catch can do?

An oil catch can traps and separates oil vapors from the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system, preventing them from entering the intake manifold.

Do you really need an oil catch can?

It’s not always necessary, but in some cases, especially with performance engines, it can help prevent carbon buildup and maintain engine cleanliness.

What is the principle of the oil catch can?

The principle is based on the separation of oil vapors from the air-fuel mixture, ensuring only clean air enters the engine for combustion.

What is the science behind the oil catch can?

It operates on the principle of cyclonic action and gravity. As air flows through, the can traps oil droplets, allowing clean air to exit.

Do catch cans damage your engine?

When properly installed and maintained, catch cans are beneficial. However, improper installation or neglect can lead to issues.

Are catch cans illegal?

Yes they are illegal.

Do petrol engines need catch cans?

Petrol engines can benefit from catch cans to trap oil vapors, preventing intake system contamination and maintaining engine efficiency.

Do oil catch cans increase performance?

Oil catch cans can enhance performance by reducing carbon buildup and preventing oil contamination, leading to cleaner combustion and prolonged engine life.

Are catch cans a waste of money?

While some argue catch cans are unnecessary, they can prevent costly engine damage by capturing harmful contaminants, making them a valuable investment for many.

Does a catch can reduce carbon?

Yes, a catch can reduces carbon buildup by capturing oil vapors and preventing them from entering the combustion chamber, ensuring cleaner engine operation.

Do catch cans collect water?

Catch cans primarily collect oil vapors and contaminants. However, in certain conditions, they can also collect condensation, including water vapor, from the crankcase ventilation system.

How long does a catch can last?

A catch can’s longevity depends on use and maintenance. Typically checked every 3,000 miles, proper care can extend its lifespan.

Do all cars need an oil catch can?

No, not all cars require an oil catch can. They’re commonly used in turbocharged or high-performance engines to reduce oil buildup, but many standard vehicles operate without them.

Do catch cans reduce oil consumption?

Catch cans can enhance fuel efficiency by preventing oil from entering the engine, potentially reducing oil consumption and enhancing engine performance.

Conclusion

What does an oil catch can do? In conclusion, an oil catch can serves as an essential component in an engine’s system by capturing and separating oil vapors and other contaminants from the crankcase ventilation system.

This device helps prevent the accumulation of harmful substances in the intake system, thereby enhancing engine performance, longevity, and overall efficiency.