An oil catch can is meant for filtering, catching, and collecting the excess oil before recirculation. Its goal is to prevent oil vapor from reaching the crankcase. In other words, they prevent oil and other contaminants from building up inside your engine’s intake manifold.
For example, let’s say you’re driving your Ford F-150 with an EcoBoost engine to a nearby campsite for a weekend getaway when suddenly, the truck starts stalling. The next day, the auto repair service calls to tell you the reason for the problem. It turns out that the intake valve is dirty, and that’s what caused the issue.
Now, while this is just an imaginary situation, it’s a very real and common occurrence. Carbon deposits and buildup are a by-product of combustion in an F150 EcoBoost engine that comes from incomplete fuel combustion. This black soot hardens on internal components like the injector nozzles, cylinder walls, and intake valves, causing serious problems.
The solution? An oil separator or catch can. It will help clean and preserve your engine, helping your horsepower reach its maximum potential.
Why does my EcoBoost need an oil catch can?
The reason why your vehicle needs an oil catch can is that Turbocharging and direct injection are quickly becoming the go-to method for building powerful and efficient pickup trucks. But, if these engines are not carefully maintained, it could mean the end for your EcoBoost.
Blow-by is caused when combustion in the engine forces fuel, air, and moisture past the piston rings and into the crankcase. From there, the blow-by is released by the crank case vents and back into the intake. This happens in all engines but is worse in turbo engines because of the stronger combustion. And since the direct injection style fuel injection moves the injector directly into the combustion chamber, there’s no spray of fuel on the intake valves to keep them clean, and gunk starts to accumulate.
This results in the engine power being reduced, with the dirty valve quickly affecting the power and fuel consumption. Therefore, an oil catch can is vital to the inner workings of your turbo truck and EcoBoost engine.
Below, we’ll help you find the best catch can for an F150 EcoBoost on the market today!
JLT 2011-2019 F150 2.7EB 3.5EB 5.0 Passenger Side Oil Separator
- It fits a wide range of engine models
- Very nicely built
- Easy & simple to install
- It comes assembled & oiled
- Stops valve coking
7 Best Catch Can for F150 EcoBoost
1. JLT 2011-2019 F150 2.7EB 3.5EB 5.0 Passenger Side Oil Separator
First on our list is the JLT oil separator that supports EcoBoost models made from 2011 through 2019. This is a multi-stage filter system designed to collect vapors and drop them easily into a removable bottom while allowing clean air to pass through the intake.
It has a 3-ounce capacity, solid billet construction, and OEM-style quick-connect PVC fittings. The knurled tank base makes it easy to remove to drain the spent oil, and its O-ring seal prevents any leaks. It’s a popular choice because of its versatility. It fits almost all EcoBoost engines, including the 2.7EB, 3.5EB, and 5.0EB.
Installment is easy and convenient as it comes with everything you need. The OEM style quickly connects PVC fittings, making them easy to assemble. Now, while the installation process is easy, some Ford owners have found the instruction manual difficult to follow. So keep this in mind if you decide to go with the JLT oil separator. But outside of that, because it comes assembled and ready to install, it takes about 5 minutes to get everything done.
2. Ruien 0046 Polish Baffled Universal Aluminum Oil Catch Can Reservoir Tank
Second on our list is the Ruien 0046, another aluminum oil tank for an F150 EcoBoost (aluminum is the best material for catch cans because of their strength and durability). Much like the JLT oil separator, this one is also known for its versatility and ability to support your EcoBoost engine and includes three types of adapters.
The Ruien 0046 has a 100% aluminum body for added strength, lightweight, corrosion resistance, and an 11-ounce capacity. It comes fully tig welded and includes an O-ring gasket in fittings to prevent oil leakage. It comes with an oil dipstick allowing you conveniently check the fluid level in the catch can by opening it up every time.
Another notable feature is the vent. This catch allows for any built-up pressure to escape from the top of the can, allowing it not to accumulate inside and run the risk of blowing up. Now, while this kit comes with all the accessories you need for installment, keep in mind that the hoses are not high-quality. We would recommend replacing those hoses altogether, along with the hose connectors.
3. Vincos Universal 3/” 9/1” 400ml Aluminum Dual Cylinder Polish Baffled Engine Air Tank Reservoir Kit Oil Catch Can
Looking for a universal aluminum oil catch can that is also affordable? Then look no further. Third, on our list is the Vincos Black Polish Baffled Universal Aluminum Oil Catch Can. This dual-cylinder oil catch tank offers everything that the JLT oil separator and Ruien 0046 do but at a fraction of the price.
The Vinco’s Oil Catch Can is made of high-quality billet aerospace 6061 aluminum with an anodized black finish, fully tig welded, and is installed with a breather filter along with a hose clamp to stop the breather from coming loose during vibrations.
Other features include an O-ring gasket, baffles, and a dipstick to check fluid level without the need to open the can. Easy to clean without dismounting.
It’s no secret that you can end up shelling out hundreds of dollars for additional truck gadgets, and most of the time, cheaper products mean poor quality. But that’s where Vinco’s comes in. It’s a quality Ford 150 EcoBoost catch can that comes at an affordable price. It catches any moisture and oil collected in the blow-by gas tank that can cause carbon and sludge buildups inside the intake system and engine.
A few truck owners reported finding metal shavings inside the can when it arrived, which can cause problems with the engine. So, be sure to check and clean the catch can before installing it into your Ford Truck.
4. ESPEEDER SYKRSS Universal Aluminum Car Truck Engine Oil Catch Can
Our fourth pick is the ESPEEDER Universal Aluminum Oil Catch Can., made from high-quality T6061 aluminum with a stylish appearance, so it’s perfect for Ford owners who are looking for a catch can that complements or blends in with your F150. The oil catch can is lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant.
It includes fuel hoses, two different adapters, O-ring gaskets to prevent leaks, hose clamp reinforcement, a built-in dipstick, and removable bottom for draining. It’s also versatile, fitting the EcoBoost line along with other vehicles.
Now, one of the downsides of the ESPEEDER is the added hose. It’s not a vacuum hose and cannot withstand high temperatures. The manufacturer recommends replacing the hose with a good-quality rubber vacuum for maximum performance. Why do they include the hose if it’s not able to perform? We don’t know.
That being said, the performance of this oil catch can for your EcoBoost engine is excellent. It’s easy to use, install, and aesthetically pleasing. For convenience and performance, we recommend the ESPEEDER Universal Aluminum Oil Catch Can for your Ford F-150.
5. Mishimoto MMBCC-F35T-11SBE Baffled Oil Catch Can
Are you looking for the best oil can specifically designed for a 2011-2014 Ford EcoBoost engine? Then look no further than the Mishimoto Baffled Oil Catch Can. This is a direct fit for the 2011 to 2014 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost. The dual-can setup captures blow-by from both the PCV and CCV systems. It comes in either a 7.5-ounce or 12-ounce can for longer service intervals, and an in-line check valve prevents the can from being pressurized.
This oil catch can also is built with a durable aluminum body like the others on this list. Its high-quality performance is thanks to its powder-coated 3-millimeters steel bracket, quick-disconnect fittings, and anodized aluminum can. Plus, the in-line check value ensures the boost stays where it belongs. One of its downsides is the positioning of the catch can, with some truck owners saying it can be inconvenient when it comes time to drain.
In addition, this product is backed by the Mishimoto Lifetime Warranty.
6. EIGIIS Universal Car Dual Cylinder Polish Baffled Engine Oil Catch Can Kit Reservoir
EIGIIS is known for its affordable and quality products, which is why number six on our list is the EIGIIS Oil Catch Can Kit. This dual-cylinder oil catch can is made of 0046 aluminum and has a capacity of 300ml. It is fully tig welded and comes with an O-ring gasket to prevent leaks. It can be easily unscrewed at the bottom for easy cleaning and also includes a washable stainless steel screw on the filter/venting hole with a hose clamp to prevent loosening.
Now, while this EcoBoost catch can comes in cheaper than the others, the reason is that the manufacturer does not include additional accessories. So you will need to purchase the extra parts you need, including a hose and mounting clips. But overall, you” be surprised by the quality of this catch can for your Ford EcoBoost truck engine.
7. ESPEEDER SYKRSS Universal Aluminum Oil Catch Can Polish Baffled Reservoir Tank
We end our list with another ESPEEDER SKYRSS product. Much like the one above, this oil catch can also is aesthetically pleasing and affordable.
The oil catch can is high-quality anodized T-6061 aluminum for strength and durability, giving your Ford F-150 engine better mileage, longevity, and higher performance. Choose from 5 different color options and pay a more affordable price for a cost-effective option. It includes an O-ring gasket, built-in dipstick, hose clamp, and removable button for draining.
It allows for two types of installation: an easy-to-install oil catch can with a breather filter or without the breather filter as a seal can. Comes with an internal baffle dual chamber filter that catches air and moisture.
Even though it’s on the less expensive side, the value you get with the ESPEEDER SYKRSS Universal is top-tier. However, keep in mind that the hose provided is not usable and will need to be replaced. The mounting bolts also require a hex key, which the truck owner might not have on hand. So we recommend replacing the bolts with a flat head, or Philip heads screws. But these are small adjustments that need to be made to the price.
Benefits of a Using Catch Can on Your F150 Truck
The advantage of an oil catch can or catch tank is that it helps prevent oil buildup in the vital engine parts like the crankcase. It is positioned in the crankcase ventilation system of the Ford truck.
Usually, the hose on the top of your engine’s crankcase relieves pressure made by the blow-by. The issue with the hose is that it can allow oil and gunk into the intake manifold from the crankcase. This creates buildup inside, which can negatively impact the truck’s fuel economy, horsepower, and overall engine functions.
This issue is very common in direct-injection engines like the F-150 EcoBoost. The fuel fume works like a cleaner for port-injection engines, cleaning off any potential oil buildup. But because the direct-injection engines shoot the fuel straight inside the cylinder, there is nothing to stop the grease from building up in the EcoBoost.
That is where the oil catch can come into play. It installs into the crankcase and catches the fuel, grease, or other contaminants before reaching the intake manifold. This keeps the air intake system clean and your engine working optimally, with nothing holding it back. This improves fuel economy and the engine’s longevity and reduces carbon deposits.
Visit here if you are curious about how an oil catch can work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Still have questions? Here are the most commonly asked questions about the best Ford 150 EcoBoost oil catch cans.
What is the difference between a catch can and an oil separator?
While they might seem the same at first glance, an oil catch can, and an oil separator are not the same thing. Even though their job is similar, there are a few key differences.
The main difference is that the oil separator separates air and oil, letting the oil drip back into the oil pan, while the oil catch can trap the oil in the can.
How often do I need to drain my oil catch can?
How often you empty your oil catch can depend on a number of factors, but it mainly has to do with your capacity. The bigger the can capability, the less often you need to drain it. The smaller the can, the more you’ll need to drain it. A good practice is to empty out the oil catch can when you get your oil changed.
Can an oil catch add horsepower to my engine?
An oil catch can doesn’t add any power to the engine; however, a catch can ensure a cleaner intake tract free of oil and eliminate gunk buildup. This will help the engine run better for longer and can enable your horsepower to operate at peak performance.
Do I need an oil catch can?
It’s not required for your truck to have an oil catch can. It will continue to run without one. That being said, you will need to take other precautions to deal with the effects of blow-by in your truck. If you have an EcoBoost engine, we highly recommend an oil catch can.
