What is an Oil Catch Tank Can?
An oil catch tank can is a simple yet effective device designed to intercept and collect oil mist and moisture from your engine's crankcase ventilation system. This collected residue, often referred to as 'blow-by' gases, would otherwise be recirculated back into the engine's intake, potentially causing carbon build-up and reducing performance over time.
Think of it as a filter for your engine's breath. Internal combustion engines naturally produce gases that escape past the piston rings into the crankcase. The positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system is designed to vent these gases, but modern emissions regulations often force manufacturers to re-route them back into the intake manifold to be burned. This is where an aftermarket oil catch tank can step in, offering a more direct way to manage these byproducts.
- Captures unwanted oil mist from crankcase vapours.
- Prevents carbon build-up in the intake system.
- Improves engine cleanliness and longevity.
- A simple upgrade for better engine management.
How it Works
When your engine runs, pressure builds within the crankcase. This pressure, along with oil vapours and water, is pushed through the PCV system. An oil catch tank is fitted into this line. As the gases pass through the tank, which often contains baffling or a mesh filter, the oil particles and moisture condense and are trapped. The cleaner air is then typically vented back to the atmosphere or, in some setups, returned to the intake after the oil has been separated.
The benefit is twofold: it keeps the intake manifold, valves, and pistons cleaner, and it reduces the amount of oil that might otherwise be burned in the combustion chamber. This can lead to a more consistent engine performance and potentially reduce oil consumption.
Why Your Engine Benefits from a Catch Tank
Many modern vehicles are fitted with PCV systems that recirculate these blow-by gases. While this meets strict emissions standards, it's not always ideal for engine health. Over time, the oil mist can coat intake components, leading to reduced airflow and inefficient combustion. This build-up is particularly common in turbocharged or high-performance engines where crankcase pressures can be higher.
By fitting an oil catch tank can, you intercept these contaminants. This means cleaner intake valves, a cleaner throttle body, and less oil fouling on piston tops. For drivers looking to maintain their vehicle's performance, especially those who drive their cars hard or modify them, this is a significant advantage. It’s a proactive measure that helps preserve the engine’s internal integrity.
Ensuring clean intake air is fundamental to consistent engine operation and extended component life.
Regularly check your oil catch tank's contents; emptying it every few thousand miles, or when it's about half full, prevents it from overflowing and negating its benefits.
Visible Improvements
You might notice a reduction in engine knocking or pinging, especially under load, as the cleaner air-fuel mixture burns more efficiently. Some owners also report a slight improvement in throttle response. The primary advantage, however, is the long-term protection it offers against the corrosive effects of oil and moisture on internal engine parts. It's a relatively inexpensive modification that pays dividends in engine longevity.
Choosing and Maintaining Your Oil Catch Tank
When selecting an oil catch tank can, consider the size and mounting options for your specific engine bay. Most are universal, but you'll want one that fits neatly and allows for easy access for draining. Materials often include aluminium or durable plastics. Look for tanks with internal baffling or a washable/replaceable filter element to maximise their effectiveness in trapping oil and moisture.
Installation typically involves cutting into the PCV hose and inserting the tank, ensuring the flow direction is correct. Many kits come with the necessary hose and clamps, making it a feasible DIY job for those with basic mechanical knowledge. The real work comes in the maintenance: you must remember to drain the collected oil and water periodically. Failure to do so can lead to the tank overflowing, which defeats the purpose and could potentially draw liquid back into your engine.
Affordable Engine Protection
The cost of an oil catch tank can range from modest to a bit more for premium brands, but even budget-friendly options offer substantial protection for your engine. Compared to the cost of repairing carbon-related engine damage or replacing worn-out components prematurely, it’s a wise investment. It’s a small addition that contributes significantly to keeping your engine running as it should, especially on performance-oriented vehicles or those covering high mileage.
Ultimately, an oil catch tank can is about proactive care. It's a way to take control of how your engine's internal byproducts are managed, promoting a cleaner, healthier, and potentially longer-lasting engine. For any enthusiast or diligent car owner, it's an upgrade well worth considering.