I had a Alta Oil Catch can installed 2 weeks ago and already its showing signs that its 1/3-1/2 full. Should I be concerned? We did see quite a bit of oil in the intercooler and the boots that hold it. I do drive my MINI hard so I would expect some signs of this driving some where.

 

As I understand it, one should expect more as the weather gets cooler. Driving harder certainly contributes as well

 

Hard driving will do it . Surprising though that the countdown to the next oil change isn't going down to quickly

 

What happens if the can gets full?

 

You have to empty it.


Sorry, I couldn't resist.
:smile:

 

Well it can be emptied of course. But I just wonder if it fills quickly if its a sign of problems to come...

 

Colder weather will add fluid to the catch can. When you drain it you will find it is mostly water from condinsation (sp?). Doesn't indicate any potential problems, just means you have to drain it more often in colder weather.

 

No, my question is... say you forgot to empty it for a while & it becomes full. What happens to the system? Does the flow get stopped and your engine is in danger? Or does the water sludge now flow into the intercooler?

 

the water and sludge would be going back into the engine anyways, so its no big deal.

all the catch can does it catch it before it goes back into the return on the top of the motor.

 

If the can is to full, the oil or oil/water mix (depends on hook up) will get pushed or sucked into the intake stream, building up in the intake tube, throttle body, supercharger, bypass valve, intercooler, intake manifold and it'll get real nasty in the head over time.
Most important thing is to remember that the oil the can is collecting is coming from your engines oil supply, so be sure to check it more often.