Aftermarket enthusiasts are always searching for the newest method of optimizing their vehicle's power, efficiency and longevity. Among the wide selection of aftermarket upgrades that have risen to prominence in the community, one mod has emerged as a real game-changer: the oil catch can. With a simple yet highly effective design, oil catch cans are an easy and cost-effective way for any driver to elevate their performance and engine health. But how does an oil catch can work? What's an oil catch can's purpose? In this article, we'll find out. Here's everything you need to know about what an oil catch can will do for your vehicle's performance.
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What Is an Oil Catch Can?
An oil catch can is purposely built to capture excess oil that passes through an engine's piston seals to the crankcase. Ideally, the oil that lubricates your pistons (necessary for engine functionality) is precisely measured to ensure no waste. However, that's pretty rare. More often than not, the process creates oil blow-by and other contaminants. An oil catch can's purpose is to stop that blow-by from going back into your engine's air intake.
How Does an Oil Catch Can Work?
An oil catch can works by intercepting and collecting oil vapor and contaminants before they can reenter your engine's intake system. Its operation is based on some simple principles of fluid dynamics and gravity.
The device is connected to the engine's ventilation system via hoses or tubing that allow the flow of gases from the crankcase to the intake. As the engine runs, combustion gases and oil vapor are generated within the crankcase due to the natural blow-by phenomenon.
Oil catch cans are strategically designed to change the velocity and direction of the incoming gases. This change causes the gas velocity to decrease, allowing oil vapor and contaminants to condense into liquid form due to their heavier nature. The condensed oil then collects at the bottom of the catch can, which features a drain or outlet at its bottom.
An oil catch can's purpose is to act as a protective barrier between the crankcase and intake system, capturing oil vapor and contaminants before they can compromise engine performance and longevity.
The Benefits of Oil Catch Cans
Oil catch cans offer a range of benefits for both vehicle performance and engine health. They play a vital role in maintaining engine cleanliness, optimizing performance and extending the life of critical engine components. Whether you're a performance enthusiast or just seeking to protect your vehicle's engine, you'll love the benefits of oil catch cans.
The full range of oil catch can benefits include:
- Carbon Buildup Prevention: Oil catch cans intercept and collect oil vapor and contaminants before entering the engine's intake system. This prevents the buildup of carbon deposits on intake valves, which can hinder airflow, reduce power and negatively affect combustion efficiency. Oil catch cans help maintain optimal engine performance by keeping the intake system clean.
- Improved Airflow: The presence of oil vapor and contaminants in the intake system can disrupt the airflow and air-to-fuel ratio, leading to less efficient combustion. With an oil catch can in place, the intake system stays cleaner, ensuring consistent and smooth airflow for better combustion and improved throttle response.
- Enhanced Performance: Oil catch cans can increase horsepower and torque output by reducing carbon buildup and maintaining proper airflow. The engine can breathe more freely and efficiently, resulting in a more responsive and powerful driving experience.
- Reduced Engine Knock: Oil buildup in the intake system can lead to pre-ignition or engine knock, which can cause damage to the engine over time. Oil catch cans help mitigate this risk by preventing oil vapor from contaminating the intake air and causing irregular combustion.
- Extended Engine Lifespan: With fewer contaminants entering the engine, critical components such as valves, piston rings, and spark plugs are subject to less wear and tear. This can contribute to a longer engine lifespan and reduced maintenance costs over time.
CORSA Oil Catch Cans Mean Business
Elevate your driving experience to new heights with CORSA PERFORMANCE's cutting-edge oil catch can. Crafted from high grade 6061 aluminum, our oil catch cans are engineered to deliver exceptional performance and unmatched durability. Featuring a state-of-the-art multi-stage oil separation system, each catch can is tailored to your vehicle's specifications, guaranteeing a precise fit. Don't settle for anything less than peak performance – choose CORSA PERFORMANCE's oil catch can and experience the difference firsthand.
Do I Need an Oil Catch Can?
So, you know how oil catch cans work and their benefits; now comes the big question: Do you need an oil catch can? Strictly speaking, no. Your car will continue to run without one – it's not an essential upgrade.
However, if you frequently drive your vehicle at high RPMs, have a forced induction upgrade like a turbocharger or supercharger installed or you're focused on extending your engine's lifespan and minimizing maintenance costs, an oil catch can is a highly beneficial addition to your ride. Just make sure you check your local, state and city regulations before the installation.
How to Install an Oil Catch Can
CORSA's oil catch cans are purposely designed for easy installation, regardless of your vehicle type. Check out this short installation video if you want to see for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions: Oil Catch Cans
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about oil catch cans and their purpose, check out the answers to our most frequently asked questions below.
Is There a Difference Between Air/Oil Separator vs. Catch Cans?
Air/oil separators and catch cans are devices designed to address the issue of oil vapor and contaminants in the engine's intake system. Still, they work in slightly different ways and have distinct purposes. The primary difference between the two is that air/oil separators primarily focus on separating oil mist from blow-by gases, while catch cans are designed to capture oil vapor, moisture, and contaminants.
Can I Install an Oil Catch Can Myself?
Absolutely! CORSA oil catch cans come standard with OEM-style quick disconnect fittings, making installation a breeze. In most cases, installation only takes about 30 minutes or less.
Are Oil Catch Cans CARB-Approved?
No. Oil catch cans are currently not CARB-approved. However, they still may help reduce emissions by capturing hydrocarbon emissions.
Shop CORSA Oil Catch Cans Today
Now that you understand an oil catch can's purpose, it's time to pick up one for your ride. Get ready to unleash your engine's power and ensure a cleaner, smoother and more exhilarating ride with a CORSA oil catch can. With precision-engineered OEM-style quick disconnect fittings, premium automotive-grade hoses and upgraded components, our catch cans guarantee peak performance for your vehicle. Don't miss the opportunity to unlock the full potential of your engine while ensuring its longevity. Upgrade to CORSA PERFORMANCE's oil catch can and take control of your ride like never before.