Understanding the Importance of Catch Cans for Engine Performance

Why They’re Essential for Your Engine

Engines are sophisticated machines, and as they work to keep you moving, they also generate byproducts that can eventually lead to performance issues. One critical component to help keep your engine in top shape is the catch can. While it’s not standard in every car, a catch can is a small investment with big benefits, especially in today’s high-performance vehicles. Let’s break down why catch cans are beneficial, what symptoms they address, and why these issues happen in the first place.

What Is a Catch Can?

A catch can, also known as an oil catch can, is a device installed in your car's PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) system to capture oil and other contaminants before they reach the engine intake. This addition helps prevent these contaminants from causing carbon build-up in your engine, which can lead to various performance issues.

Oil Catch Can Replacement in a GU Nissan Patrol by East-West Autos

Why Does This Happen?

To understand the need for a catch can, it’s important to understand the role of the PCV system:

PCV System Purpose: The PCV system is designed to allow gases from the engine’s crankcase to escape. As these gases travel, they pick up oil vapor and other contaminants. Without a catch can, these contaminants are routed back to the intake, allowing them to enter the combustion chamber. Click on this link for further information on the PCV valve https://srvc.video/CzHr
Engine Oil Contamination: When oil vapor mixes with fuel and air, it forms deposits on the intake valves, throttle body, and intake manifold. Over time, this leads to a carbon buildup that can impact engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Turbocharged Engines: Turbo engines are particularly susceptible to this issue as they produce higher pressures and temperatures, leading to more oil vapor being drawn back into the intake system.

Symptoms of Oil Contamination in the Intake System

When oil and other contaminants enter the intake system, the following issues may arise:

Reduced Power: Contaminants coat the intake valves, reducing air intake efficiency and potentially affecting engine performance.
Increased Fuel Consumption: With less efficient air intake, the engine may consume more fuel to maintain performance levels.
Idle Issues and Rough Running: Excess buildup can disrupt airflow, potentially causing rough idling or engine hesitation.
Check Engine Light: In severe cases, buildup may trigger the check engine light due to poor combustion efficiency.
Carbon Deposits: Over time, carbon buildup on the valves can create long-term damage, requiring costly maintenance.

How a Catch Can Helps

A catch can acts as a filter in the PCV system, capturing oil, moisture, and other contaminants before they enter the intake. Here’s how this simple device may help with these symptoms:

Reduces Carbon Build-Up: By trapping oil and other deposits, a catch can help reduce carbon buildup on the intake valves and throttle body.
Supports Engine Efficiency: With cleaner air entering the combustion chamber, your engine can run more efficiently, leading to smoother performance and possibly improved fuel economy under certain conditions.
May Extend Engine Life: By reducing wear from oil deposits, a catch can help reduce wear on your engine’s components.
Helps Protect Turbocharged Engines: Turbo engines, with higher pressures, benefit from catch cans, which help manage the extra oil vapor produced.

Frequently Asked Questions About Catch Cans

Q: Why isn’t a catch can standard in all vehicles?
A: While highly beneficial, catch cans aren’t typically included in standard vehicles due to cost and manufacturing priorities. However, aftermarket catch cans are widely available and may benefit performance cars, turbocharged engines, and vehicles with direct injection.

Q: Will a catch can affect my warranty?
A: This depends on the manufacturer and the installation. Adding aftermarket components may affect your warranty coverage, so it’s always a good idea to check with your vehicle manufacturer or dealer regarding specific warranty terms.

Q: How often should I empty my catch can?
A: For best results, check your catch can every oil change. Some catch cans are clear or have sight tubes to easily monitor oil levels.

Q: Can I install a catch can myself?
A: While it’s possible to install a catch can yourself, for best results and to ensure compliance with warranty terms, we recommend professional installation of all aftermarket components.

Adding a catch can to your vehicle’s PCV system is an excellent way to protect your engine and enhance its performance. Whether you drive a turbocharged car, a high-performance model, or simply want to extend the life of your engine, a catch can is a wise investment.

Contact East-West Autos to learn more about catch can installation options for your vehicle and take a proactive step toward maintaining your engine’s health!