Quote:
Originally Posted by interzonearts
Thanks, just to make sure i follow. The catcher is supposed to catch oil which then should go down to the oil pan, right?
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Yes and no...
There are two configurations that are used with catch cans...ok, three technically.
In all cases oil vapors from the valve cover enter the catch can where physical and mechanical means are used to remove the oil particles from the vapor. In my case I'm using a custom fabricated can with stainless steel wool as the media to condense out the oil and baffles to increase the effective distance vapors travel in the can. Other systems use venturi and cyclone effects to separate the oil. Once the oil is collected -
Option 1 - Clean oil is returned to the crankcase
Option 2 - Clean oil is collected in the catch can and emptied periodically through a drain on the bottom or side.
Option 3 - The oil is vented to the pavement (and the bottom of the car and all over the place) Some people vent to the frame rails as a "rust preventative" measure....questionable at best.
The early 617 engines had a smooth upper oil pan that had a one way valve to return the oil. (This is the one I installed on my car...not for this reason but for subframe clearance on a custom engine swap). This makes option 1 a no-brainer. If you don't have that, you can drill and tap the oil pan for a return, or most people go with a drainable catch can with a sight gauge for oil.
Here's an example -
Sometimes the catch can is vented, and no oil is returned to the intake - not generally recommended, particularly with diesels as this can get really, really messy.
Hope that helps.