So you’ve decided it’s time to install an oil catch can kit on your car. Great choice—those kits can really help keep your engine running strong by reducing oil blow-by. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one for your needs? Well, the most important things to consider are the fittings and hoses, the catch can capacity, and any included accessories. The fittings and hoses have to match your engine’s specs, otherwise the whole kit will be useless. You’ll also want a catch can that’s sized properly for how often you want to empty it. And accessories like dipsticks, filters, and mounting brackets will make installation and maintenance a breeze. Keep these factors in mind and you’ll end up with an oil catch can kit that serves you well for years to come.
What Is an Oil Catch Can Kit?
An oil catch can kit is designed to capture excess oil vapor and condensation in your engine before it can enter the intake manifold. This helps prevent buildup and keeps your engine running efficiently.
The basic parts of a catch can kit include:
- An oil catch can: This container captures the excess oil and water vapor. It has inlet and outlet ports to connect to your engine’s PCV valve system.
- Hoses: High-temperature hoses route gasses from your engine’s valve cover or intake manifold to the inlet port of the catch can. Another hose sends cleaned gasses out from the catch can outlet to your intake manifold.
- Mounting hardware: Brackets, straps, and clamps securely mount the hoses and catch can in your engine bay. Proper mounting is important to avoid damage or leaks.
- Drain valve or plug: Allows you to drain the accumulated oil and water from the catch can. Most recommend draining around every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
- PCV valve (optional): If your catch can kit doesn’t come with a PCV valve, you’ll need to install one in the hose between the valve cover and catch can inlet to control the flow of gasses into the can.
Using an oil catch can helps prevent performance-robbing buildup in your engine and intake tract. For many vehicle owners, the benefits of cleaner oil and improved efficiency make a catch can kit a worthwhile investment. Your engine will thank you!
Why Use a 6AN Fitting for Your Oil Catch Can?
Using 6AN fittings for your oil catch can means better flow and less clogging. Here are a few reasons why 6AN is the way to go:
Superior Flow Rate
The larger diameter of 6AN lines allows for higher flow of fluids like oil and air. This means the oil can travel freely from your engine to the catch can, reducing buildup in the lines. The improved flow also allows the catch can to operate more efficiently.
Less Chance of Clogs
The wider 6AN fittings are less likely to clog up with sludge and debris over time compared to narrower fittings. Unclogging lines is difficult and messy work, so preventing clogs in the first place is ideal. The smooth inner walls of 6AN fittings also discourage gunk from sticking.
Handles Higher Pressure
6AN lines and fittings can handle higher PSI levels, perfect for performance engines. The reinforced construction prevents leaks even under increased pressure. If you plan to modify your engine to produce more power, 6AN is a must.
Easier Installation
The larger size of 6AN fittings means installation and removal are simpler jobs. You’ll have an easier time connecting lines and routing them in your engine bay. The fittings also seal tight with less effort.
For the best flowing, clog-resistant, high-pressure oil catch can kit, 6AN fittings are the way to go. Your engine will stay cleaner and perform better, all thanks to a simple upgrade. An oil catch can with 6AN fittings is worth the investment for any enthusiast looking to get the most from their vehicle.
Top 5 Tips for Choosing the Best 6AN Oil Catch Can Kit
When choosing an oil catch can kit for your 6AN fittings, here are some tips to find the best option:
Size
Choose a catch can size based on your engine displacement and oil flow rate. For most engines under 5 liters, a catch can with a capacity of 8 ounces or more should work well. Larger engines will require bigger cans, around 16 ounces. Too small a can means it will fill up quickly, while too large a can is unnecessary and takes up extra space.
Construction
Look for a durable catch can made of aluminum, stainless steel or powder coated steel. These materials can withstand exposure to heat, oil and the elements. Plastic kits may be cheaper but can crack or leak over time. For the fittings, anodized aluminum or stainless steel 6AN fittings will have superior durability and corrosion resistance.
Filter
An air filter or mesh filter in the catch can prevents debris from entering your engine. Choose a filter with a fine micron rating, around 10 to 40 microns. This will capture contaminants without clogging up too quickly. Easier access to the filter for cleaning or replacement is better. Some catch cans have a filter built-in while others require you to install separate filters.
Drain Valve
A bottom drain valve allows you to easily release the collected oil and contaminants. Choose a ball valve or petcock valve for convenient draining without having to remove the can. Some valves can attach to a hose for directing the drained oil into a waste container.
Mounting Kit
For secure installation, choose a catch can that comes with a mounting bracket or kit. This allows you to properly mount the can in your engine bay, avoiding movement or rattling. Brackets that offer some adjustability in the positioning and angle of the can provide the most versatility for your setup.
Following these tips will help you select an oil catch can kit with high quality components that suit your specific engine and needs. The right catch can will effectively remove oil vapors and keep your engine running clean.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the basics on choosing the right oil catch can kit for your vehicle. Now that you’re armed with the knowledge of the different fittings, filter types and brands, you can make an informed decision on what will work best for your needs and budget. No more blindly guessing and hoping for the best. Take your time, do some research on your specific engine and model, read reviews from others with similar setups. An oil catch can is an investment to protect your engine, so choose wisely and you’ll have many miles of clean, efficient performance ahead. The perfect kit is out there, you just have to go find it!