If you own a modern diesel truck, you've probably heard about oil catch cans. But what exactly is the oil catch can purpose, and why might your truck need one? This guide explains what does an oil catch can do, the key benefits, and how this simple upgrade can protect your engine and improve performance. Whether you drive a Cummins, Duramax, or Powerstroke, understanding catch cans could save you from costly repairs.
What is an Oil Catch Can and How Does It Work?
An oil catch can is a simple but effective device that intercepts oil vapors and blow-by gases from your engine's crankcase ventilation system before they can enter your intake system. Here's how it works:
The Basic Process
- Blow-by gases (containing oil vapor) enter the catch can
- Internal baffling or filtering separates oil from air
- Clean air continues to the intake system
- Captured oil collects in the can for disposal
- Regular emptying maintains system efficiency
This process prevents the oil vapor contamination that plagues many modern direct-injection engines, especially diesels with high boost pressures.
Primary Oil Catch Can Purpose: Key Benefits
1. Prevents Intake System Contamination
The main oil catch can purpose is to stop oil vapors from coating your intake system. Without a catch can, these vapors create a sticky residue that:
- Coats intercooler walls reducing efficiency
- Covers intake valves affecting airflow
- Contaminates sensors causing inaccurate readings
- Creates carbon buildup on turbo components
2. Reduces Carbon Buildup on Valves
Unlike gasoline direct injection engines, diesel engines don't have fuel washing over the intake valves. This makes them particularly susceptible to carbon accumulation from oil vapors. A catch can significantly reduces this issue.
3. Maintains Optimal Air-Fuel Mixture
By ensuring only clean air enters your combustion chambers, catch cans help maintain:
- Proper air-fuel ratios
- Consistent combustion
- Better fuel economy
- Smoother engine operation
4. Protects Turbocharger Components
Oil vapors can coat turbo compressor wheels and intercooler piping, reducing efficiency and potentially leading to premature turbo wear and reduced boost pressure.
5. Improves Overall Engine Longevity
The benefits of oil catch can installation contribute to long-term engine health by:
- Reducing maintenance costs
- Extending component life
- Maintaining performance
- Preventing related issues
Who Needs an Oil Catch Can? Key Applications
Diesel Truck Owners
- High-boost applications create more blow-by
- Towing and heavy loads increase crankcase pressure
- Modified engines with increased boost levels
- Older engines with worn piston rings
Performance Applications
- Track vehicles experiencing high G-forces
- Forced induction vehicles (turbo/supercharged)
- Engines with aggressive tuning
- Vehicles used for competition
Daily Drivers
- Stop-and-go driving conditions
- Short trip vehicles that don't reach operating temperature
- High-mileage engines with increased blow-by
- Any vehicle where engine protection is a priority
Top Oil Catch Can Solutions for Your Truck
1. 2006-2024 5.9L/6.7 Ram Cummins Billet Valve Cover & oil catch can
Premium Integrated Protection for Cummins Engines
This isn't just a catch can – it's a complete high-performance valve cover replacement engineered specifically for 2006-2024 5.9L and 6.7L Cummins engines. Crafted from aircraft-quality billet aluminum, this integrated system delivers both superior engine protection and enhanced underhood appearance.
Key Advantages:
- Complete OEM Replacement: Direct bolt-on solution that eliminates complex plumbing while upgrading your factory valve cover
- Superior Oil Separation: Features a removable baffle system that can be packed with additional filter media for maximum contaminant capture
- Enhanced Crankcase Management: Effectively controls pressure at higher RPMs, maintaining optimal engine performance and reducing blow-by
- Professional Grade Construction: CNC-machined from solid billet aluminum for exceptional durability and leak-free operation
- Clean Emissions Management: Includes provisions for connecting to waste oil collection systems or CCV delete kits for proper oil disposal
Performance Benefits:
- Prevents intake system contamination by capturing over 95% of oil vapors
- Reduces carbon buildup on valves and turbo components
- Maintains optimal boost pressure and air-fuel ratios
- Improves overall engine efficiency and longevity
Perfect For: Cummins owners seeking the ultimate all-in-one solution that combines professional-grade engine protection with enhanced engine bay aesthetics.
2. Oil Catch Reservoir Breather Can Tank with Filter Cylinder Aluminum Universal
Universal Protection for Any Diesel Application
This versatile 300mL capacity catch can provides affordable, professional-grade engine protection for virtually any diesel truck or performance vehicle. Its universal design and comprehensive fitting kit make installation straightforward, while the anodized aluminum construction ensures durability and corrosion resistance.
Key Features:
- Universal Compatibility: Includes multiple hose adapters (3/8" & 9/16") for easy installation on most diesel applications
- Easy Maintenance: Features a built-in dipstick for quick fluid level checks and a removable baffle for filter media upgrades
- Compact Design: Measures just 4.45" height x 2.65" diameter for flexible mounting options in tight engine bays
- High-Efficiency Filtration: Multi-stage separation system captures oil contaminants before they reach your intake system
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality aluminum alloy with anodized finish for corrosion resistance
Performance Benefits:
- Improves fuel economy by maintaining clean air intake
- Reduces engine wear by preventing oil contamination
- Enhances engine performance through consistent air-fuel mixtures
- Extends engine life by reducing carbon deposits and turbo contamination
Ideal For: Truck owners needing effective, affordable engine protection that can be easily transferred between vehicles or added to multiple applications.
Ready to Protect Your Investment?
Whether you're driving a rugged Cummins or another diesel workhorse, installing a quality oil catch can is one of the smartest investments you can make for your truck's longevity. Both of these solutions are available at dieseltok.com
FAQs About Oil Catch Cans
Q1: What is the main purpose of an oil catch can?
A1: The primary oil catch can purpose is to intercept oil vapors from the crankcase ventilation system before they can enter the intake system, preventing contamination and carbon buildup.
Q2: Do oil catch cans really work on diesel trucks?
A2: Yes, they are particularly effective on diesel engines due to higher boost pressures and blow-by gases that contribute to intake contamination issues.
Q3: How often do I need to empty my catch can?
A3: This depends on driving conditions, but most users need to empty their catch can every 1,000-3,000 miles or during regular oil changes.
Q4: Will a catch can void my warranty?
A4: Typically no, as catch cans don't modify emissions systems and actually help protect your engine. However, always check your specific warranty terms.
Q5: Can I install a catch can myself?
A5: Yes, most catch cans are designed for DIY installation with basic tools and mechanical knowledge. Installation typically takes 1-2 hours.
