MX-5 Catch Can: Clean Crankcase Ventilation for Turbo & NA Builds | SPS Motorsport

Some time ago we developed our own catch can, which can now be found in every single turbo kit from us. But what are the advantages of using a catch can? Are there any disadvantages? These and other questions will be answered today!

The catch can is always connected to the engine's crankcase ventilation. With the MX-5 NA / NB / NBFL, the unfiltered air is fed back into the intake system. The disadvantage here is that the oil mist in this air is also conducted into the intake tract. This oil is now deposited on the intake tract and the valves and cokes or clogs the intake. To avoid this, there are catch cans that filter the oil from the air and thus divert the air into the intake (or into the ambient air). In this case, the oil remains in the catch can and can be emptied at regular intervals.

We ourselves offer our Catch Can for all MX-5 models. With the MX-5 NA, NB and NBFL this fits directly into the bracket of the carbon filter. Appropriate brackets are supplied for NC and ND so that they can be securely fastened in the engine compartment. You can see exactly where the new Catch Can sits on the last two models and how the whole thing looks in the pictures of this MotorBlog post.
The catch can is supplied with all the material you need for assembly. So you get a completely finished kit, which you only have to install in your car. Basically, the Catch Can itself is identical for all models, it is only delivered with different mounting material and, if necessary, with different holders.

Let's take a closer look at the basic structure of our catch can:
The respective inputs and outputs are marked on the cover so that they cannot be mixed up. All inputs to the Catch Can have a dip tube and a steel wool insert behind the input to give the oil as much surface as possible to condense. The oil then enters the catch can through the dip tube. A baffle plate is installed in front of the exit of the catch can to keep any oil spouting out of the exit. This cover is then screwed onto the actual oil collecting container with 6 screws and the corresponding seal. A sealing plug is attached to the bottom of the container to allow easy emptying of the catch can. We recommend taking the catch can out of the car for a moment and properly disposing of the collected oil.

In addition to our standard catch cans, we offer the catch can for the MX-5 NA / NB / NBFL for our own valve covers with dash connections. This can be easily selected in the product using the dropdown. This means that the valve cover that we have worked on can be optimally vented.

Why do we use Catch Cans for all our Turbokits?

The conversion to turbo produces more pressure in the crankcase, which has to be diverted. The OEM system of the MX-5 is not designed for this, which is why a catch can is required. The increased pressure in the crankcase means that oil vapors and condensation can more easily be carried to the outside through the crankcase ventilation. These oil vapors and condensation water are easily captured by our Catch Can and the intake system remains free from oil and condensation water contamination.

When do I need a Catch Can for my MX-5?

We generally recommend a catch can for all turbo or supercharged engines. With all turbo kits, these are already included in the turbo kit, which means that a catch can does not have to be purchased separately again. In the case of the compressor kits, this must be purchased separately.

Which Pro´s and Con´s does a Catch Can have?

Pro:

• Filtered crankcase ventilation
• No coking or sticking of the intake system
• The result is a clean intake tract

Contra:

• Occasional emptying or checking of the oil level in the catch can necessary

If you have any questions about catch cans, you are welcome to leave a comment on this blog or simply send us an email.

Your SPS Motorsport Team