Elite Catch Cans: Complete Guide to Performance & Protection

What is an Elite Catch Can?

An elite catch can is an important engine component designed to improve performance and longevity in high-performance vehicles. Installing an elite catch can helps remove oil vapors and blow-by gases from the intake system which can otherwise dilute or contaminate the air/fuel mixture.

How Does an Elite Catch Can Work?

A catch can is installed along the crankcase ventilation system and uses baffles and various media to condense and capture oil vapor and gases. The gases pass through the can and the oil coalesces on the walls, draining back into the engine or oil pan rather than passing through to the intake.

High quality elite catch cans use advanced materials and designs to improve flow while maximizing oil separation efficiency. This keeps intake components clean for optimal combustion and minimizes oil consumption through the engine.

Benefits of an Elite Catch Can

Installing an elite catch can provides many benefits:

• Keeps intake tracts clean for better throttle response
• Reduces deposits in intake valves and ports
• Lowers risk of detonation issues
• Improves horsepower and torque output
• Decreases oil consumption
• Extends life of turbochargers and superchargers

Types of Elite Catch Cans

There are a few main types of high performance catch cans to choose from:

Baffled Catch Cans

Elite catch can designs utilize internal baffles to enhance separation. The vapors must follow a winding path which causes oil to condense out. Advanced elite catch cans have fine mesh screens to collect very small droplets.

Centrifugal Catch Cans

Centrifugal force is used to sling oil outward where it collects on the walls of the can. This approach requires specific positioning of the inlet and outlet ports to generate spin inside the can.

Absorbent Media Catch Cans

Some elite catch cans contain media that attracts and captures oil molecules. As air passes through the can, oil is wicked into the media. Examples include stainless steel wool and specialized foams.

Choosing the Best Elite Catch Can

With many options available, keep these tips in mind when selecting an elite catch can:

• Match the flow capacity to engine requirements
• Consider baffled designs for proven performance
• Look for durable materials like aircraft grade aluminum or stainless steel
• Drain ports should be conveniently located
• Verify fitment for your specific vehicle
• Purchase from a reputable performance brand

Maintaining Your Elite Catch Can

To keep your elite catch can working properly:

• Check oil level in can periodically
• Drain oil as needed to avoid overfilling
• Clean out can when changing oil
• Ensure fittings and hoses are secure
• Replace filter screen if excessive buildup occurs

Properly maintained, a quality elite catch can will provide years of boosted engine protection and optimal performance.

Conclusion

Installing an elite catch can is one of the best modifications for boosted high performance engines. Elite catch cans use innovative designs to effectively capture oil vapor and gases, keeping your intake system clean. This preserves power output while minimizing long-term wear. With quality components and routine service, an elite catch can will help your engine perform to its maximum potential.

FAQs

What vehicles benefit most from an elite catch can?

Elite catch cans are most beneficial for turbocharged, supercharged, diesel, and direct injection engines which are prone to more blow-by. High performance motorsport engines also see excellent gains with an elite catch can installed.

How difficult is it to install an elite catch can?

Installation difficulty varies by vehicle application. Some catch cans conveniently tie into existing crankcase vent hoses, while others may require some custom routing. In most cases, no major modifications are needed for proper fitment.

How often should I drain and clean my elite catch can?

A good rule of thumb is to check oil level monthly and drain/clean the catch can whenever you change your engine oil and filter for optimal performance.

Will an elite catch can cause my engine to run lean?

Properly designed catch cans allow adequate airflow and should not cause an overly lean air/fuel ratio. It's a good idea to monitor AFR sensor readings after installation to make tuning adjustments if needed.

Do I still need a catch can if I already have a PCV valve?

Yes, the PCV only controls crankcase pressure while the catch can separates oil and condensate. They serve different functions so you’ll experience the best results by using both components.