What Makes Oil Catch Cans So Important?

What a Catch! What Makes Oil Catch Cans So Important?

In the world of automotive maintenance, certain components play a pivotal yet often overlooked role in preserving the health and longevity of an engine. One such component is the oil catch can – a relatively small and inconspicuous device that holds the key to preventing a cascade of potential issues within your vehicle. As we delve into the heart of internal combustion engines, we’ll explore why oil catch cans are so important — especially for 4WDs. If you’re curious about the installation process, you’ll be happy to know that we’ve also outlined this simple procedure, step by step.

What is an Oil Catch Can?

An oil catch can is a device designed to capture and separate oil vapours from the crankcase ventilation system of an internal combustion engine. In an engine, small amounts of oil can escape from the crankcase and mix with air and other combustion byproducts. This mixture, known as blow-by, is typically recirculated back into the intake system to be burned in the combustion chamber. However, some oil particles may not be completely burned and can accumulate over time, leading to carbon deposits and reduced engine efficiency. The oil catch can intercept this oil-laden air, allowing the oil to condense and collect in the can while letting the cleaner air continue its path through the intake system. By installing an oil catch can, car owners aim to reduce carbon buildup, enhance engine performance, and maintain the longevity of the engine components.

Why Do You Need an Oil Catch Can for Your 4WD?

An oil catch can is particularly beneficial for 4WD (four-wheel drive) vehicles due to the demanding nature of off-road driving conditions. In off-road environments, 4WD vehicles often encounter steep inclines, declines, and uneven terrains, leading to increased stress on the engine. The off-road setting can exacerbate the production of oil blow-by, where oil vapours escape the crankcase and mix with the intake air. Without an oil catch can, these oil particles may enter the engine's intake system, contributing to carbon buildup and potential performance issues. In a 4WD context, where reliable engine performance is crucial for navigating challenging landscapes, an oil catch can is essential. By effectively capturing and separating oil contaminants, the catch can help maintain a cleaner and more efficient engine, ensuring that the 4WD vehicle operates optimally even under the rigours of off-road driving.

What Traits Do You Need in an Oil Catch Can?

A great catch can will have several key features that make it effective in maintaining a healthy and high-performing engine. First and foremost, an efficient separation mechanism is crucial. The catch can should effectively capture and condense oil vapours, preventing them from entering the engine's intake system. A design that facilitates easy installation and maintenance is also important, ensuring that users can incorporate the catch can seamlessly into their vehicle and regularly empty accumulated oil without hassle. Durability is another critical factor; a well-constructed catch can should withstand the harsh conditions within an engine bay and resist corrosion. Additionally, the catch can should provide adequate capacity to handle varying levels of blow-by in different driving conditions. A transparent or easily inspectable design is beneficial, allowing users to monitor the collected oil levels and assess the need for maintenance. Ultimately, a great catch can efficiently address the challenges of oil blow-by, offering a balance of functionality, durability, and user-friendly design.

How Do You Fit an Oil Catch Can to Your Diesel Engine?

Fitting an oil catch can to a diesel engine typically involves several straightforward steps, and many enthusiasts prefer using oil catch can kits for a more convenient installation process. It's important to consult your vehicle's manual or seek guidance from the kit manufacturer for any specific instructions or considerations related to your diesel engine model. Proper installation of an oil catch can may significantly contribute to the longevity and performance of your diesel engine by preventing the accumulation of oil contaminants.

Choose the Right Kit

Select an oil catch can kit that is compatible with your diesel engine make and model. Oil catch can kits usually come with all the necessary components, including hoses, mounting brackets, and fittings.

Identify Installation Points

Locate suitable points in your engine bay for installing the catch can. Common locations include the crankcase breather or the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system.

Disconnect Hoses

Carefully disconnect the hoses from the crankcase breather or PCV system. Make sure the engine is cool before starting the installation process.

Mount the Catch Can

Securely mount the catch can using the provided brackets. Ensure that it is positioned upright and in a location that allows for easy access during maintenance.

Connect Hoses

Attach the hoses from the engine to the catch can and from the catch can back to the intake system. Most kits come with fittings that make these connections secure and straightforward.

Secure and Adjust

Double-check all connections to ensure they are tight and secure. Adjust the catch can's fittings and hoses as needed for optimal fitment.

Test for Leaks

Start the engine and inspect the installation for any signs of leaks. Address any issues promptly.

Monitor and Maintain

Keep an eye on the oil level in the catch can and empty it periodically to prevent overfilling. Follow the maintenance guidelines provided with the kit.

Where to Buy Quality Oil Catch Cans

If you’re in the market for a high-quality oil catch can, consider the impressive range offered at Proflow. Designed by experts and built with durable materials, these components are built to last. They’ve also been made with the customer in mind, so you can rest assured that the installation process will be as simple as possible. Whether you are a professional mechanic or simply a car enthusiast, you’ll have no trouble working with these handy components. Plus, you can always reach out to our experienced team for insight and advice. For the best oil catch cans around, visit our website today!