Oil Separators & Catch Cans
Every engine pushes some oil vapor out of the crankcase, and the PCV system routes it straight back into the intake. On a direct-injection engine there is no fuel wash to keep the intake valves clean, so that vapor bakes onto the valves as carbon. On a turbo diesel it coats the intercooler and piping.
An oil separator intercepts that vapor and drops it into a reservoir you empty at oil-change intervals. Simple part, meaningful protection over 100,000 miles.
Driver side or passenger side?
Many engines have two PCV circuits and take a separator on each side. Kits are sold per side — check which circuit you are addressing, or run both for full coverage.
Maintenance
Check the can at every oil change. How fast it fills depends on engine condition, climate and how hard the truck works; a towing rig in cold weather fills faster than a commuter.
Oil Separators & Catch Cans FAQs
Do I need an oil separator on both sides of my engine?
If your engine has two PCV circuits, you can fit one per side for full coverage. The listings are sold per side, and driver and passenger parts are not the same. Check which circuit your truck has before you buy.
What is the difference between an oil separator and a catch can?
Both trap oil vapor from the crankcase before it reaches the intake. A vehicle-specific separator is built to bolt onto a particular engine's PCV system, while a universal catch can needs you to plumb hoses and mount it yourself.
Will a J&L separator fit my 3.0L EcoBoost?
There is a listing for the 3.0L EcoBoost in the passenger side group. Match your truck, year and engine to the listing, and check the part number.
How often do I empty an oil separator?
Check the can at every oil change and empty it as needed. How quickly it fills depends on engine condition, climate and use.
Does a Bronco built after mid-2021 need a different separator?
Yes, there is a driver side J&L listing that says it fits the Bronco after the mid-2021 PCV line change. If you are not sure when yours was built, check the door sticker or call us.
