Quick answer
Most PLM Oil Catch Can issues stem from incorrect hose routing, loose fittings, or a missing check valve. This guide walks you through diagnosing and fixing each problem.
Why catch can problems happen
The PLM Power Driven Universal Oil Catch Can Kit is designed to trap oil and blow-by before they reach your intake, but like any aftermarket PCV component, it needs correct installation and periodic maintenance. Common complaints include oil leaks, poor crankcase ventilation, and difficulty fitting the bracket in tight engine bays.
Because the kit is universal, fitment depends on your vehicle's specific PCV layout and available space. The internal baffling keeps oil contained during aggressive driving, but if the can is mounted too low or lines are kinked, performance suffers.
Diagnosis guide
- Symptom: Oil leaking from catch can fittings or drain plug: Likely cause: Loose hose clamps, mismatched hose ID, or over-tightened drain plug stripping the threads. Corrective action: Verify hose ID matches the 4 ports (typically 5/8" or 3/8"). Use constant-tension clamps instead of worm-gear clamps. Tighten drain plug to hand-tight plus a quarter turn; do not use a wrench. If threads are already damaged, replace the drain plug or use thread sealant as a temporary fix.
- Symptom: Engine runs rough or stalls after catch can install: Likely cause: PCV flow restriction due to undersized hose, kinked line, or blocked can outlet. Corrective action: Check that the can is not filled beyond the baffle level. Inspect hoses for sharp bends. Ensure the can is mounted higher than the PCV valve so oil drains back. If stalling persists, temporarily bypass the can to confirm the engine runs normally without it.
- Symptom: Can fills too quickly or no oil collected: Likely cause: Wrong port connection (inlet/outlet reversed) or excessive blow-by from worn rings. Corrective action: Verify the inlet port connects to the PCV valve side and outlet to the intake. Drain and measure collected oil per 500 miles; more than 2 oz per 500 miles indicates an engine issue. If blow-by is excessive, a catch can alone won't fix worn rings—consult a mechanic for compression testing.
- Symptom: Bracket doesn't fit or can rattles: Likely cause: Universal bracket not matching your vehicle's bolt holes or mounting location. Corrective action: Use rubber-lined clamps to secure the can to a solid chassis point. Avoid mounting on plastic panels or near exhaust heat. Add foam padding between can and bracket to stop rattles. If no secure mounting point exists, consider a custom bracket or relocating the can to the inner fender.
Product facts
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PLM Power Driven Universal Oil Catch Can Kit Breather Tank: Equipped with internal baffling, the breather tank keeps oil contained even under aggressive driving conditions, ensuring cleaner gases are recirculated back into the intake. This baffling reduces the chance of oil mist reaching the intake, but only if the can is mounted upright and lines are clear.
PLM Power Driven Universal Oil Catch Can Kit Breather Tank