Why Install a Catch Can in Nashville?

A catch can, also known as an oil catch can or air oil separator, is a simple device that intercepts blow-by gases from the crankcase ventilation system. In Nashville’s climate—hot, humid summers and chilly, damp winters—the engine’s PCV system works harder, allowing more oil vapor and moisture to recirculate into the intake. Without a catch can, that oily sludge coats intake valves, reduces performance, and can cause knock over time. Installing one is a smart preventive measure for any gasoline or diesel vehicle driven on Nashville’s stop-and-go interstates like I-40 or I-65.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast at home or preparing for a weekend project, having the right tools and supplies makes the job safe, efficient, and long-lasting. This expanded guide lists every item you need, explains why each matters, and offers local tips for Nashville-area installations.

Basic Tools Required

Every installation starts with a reliable set of hand tools. While specific needs vary by vehicle, the following list covers most installations. Always verify your vehicle’s specific requirements before purchasing or renting tools.

Socket Set and Ratchet

A standard ¼-inch and ⅜-inch drive socket set will handle most bolts on intake manifold covers, throttle bodies, and bracket mounts. Include extensions and universal joints for tight engine bays (common in modern Nashville traffic vehicles like Ford F-150s and Honda Civics).

Screwdrivers (Phillips and Flat-Head)

You’ll need both sizes for hose clamps, electrical connectors, and bracket screws. Magnetic tips help retrieve dropped hardware in narrow spaces.

Wrench Set

A combination wrench set (metric and SAE) allows you to hold nuts while turning bolts. Line wrenches are ideal for fuel and vacuum line fittings.

Pliers

Needle-nose pliers for spring clamps, slip-joint pliers for hose removal, and locking pliers (Vise-Grips) for stubborn fittings. A dedicated hose clamp plier set speeds up the job.

Drill with Drill Bits

Many catch can brackets require drilling into sheet metal or plastic engine covers. A variable-speed drill with sharp bits (⅛-inch pilot, ¼-inch and ⅜-inch for mounting holes) is essential. For Nashville vehicles with existing threaded holes, a tap and die set may be needed.

Wire Cutters and Strippers

If your catch can uses a vacuum solenoid or check valve, you may need to splice or extend wires. Wire cutters, strippers, and heat shrink tubing ensure a weatherproof connection, especially important given Nashville’s humidity.

Torque Wrench

A ⅜-inch drive torque wrench (10–150 ft-lb range) lets you tighten mounting bolts and intake manifold bolts to manufacturer specifications. Overtightening can crack plastic or strip threads—a common mistake that leads to vacuum leaks.

Additional Helpful Tools

  • Pick and hook set: for removing stubborn gaskets or clamps.
  • Vacuum gauge: for verifying PCV system operation after install (optional).
  • Flashlight or work light: Nashville garages can be dim; a magnetic LED light helps.
  • Multimeter: for testing wiring continuity if using aftermarket solenoids.

Essential Supplies

Beyond basic tools, the supplies you choose directly affect installation quality and long-term reliability. Here’s what to gather:

Catch Can Kit

Purchase a kit specifically designed for your vehicle’s PCV configuration. Universal kits work but often require custom bracketry. Look for features like:

  • Baffled or mesh internals: to separate oil vapor from air efficiently.
  • Drain valve: a simple petcock or push-button drain makes maintenance easy.
  • Clear viewing tube: lets you check oil level without removing the can.
  • Oiled or foam filter element: some kits include a replaceable filter for fine mist.
Recommended brands include Mishimoto, Radium, UPR, and Baffled Oil Catch Cans. Check Mishimoto’s store for application-specific options.

Hoses and Fittings

Most catch can kits come with basic rubber hose, but upgrading to silicone hoses improves heat resistance and lifespan. In Nashville summer heat, silicone resists cracking better than rubber. You’ll need:

  • Two lengths of hose: one from PCV valve to catch can, one from catch can to intake.
  • Hose clamps: spring clamps or worm-gear clamps sized to your hose diameter (typically ⅜-inch or ½-inch). Use stainless steel for corrosion resistance.
  • Hardware fittings: barbed elbows, straight barb connectors, and NPT-to-barb adapters if your catch can uses threaded ports.
  • Check valve: some vehicles require a one-way valve to prevent reverse flow during boost conditions (for turbocharged engines common in Nashville trucks).

Mounting Hardware

Most catch cans include brackets and bolts, but aftermarket mounts may be needed for tight engine bays. Options:

  • Metal angle brackets from a hardware store for DIY solutions.
  • Rubber grommets and washers to isolate vibration and prevent metal-to-metal contact.
  • Zip ties for temporary hose routing (do not use as permanent mount—they degrade in heat).

Fluids and Cleaners

You may spill a little oil during installation. Have on hand:

  • Engine oil (same type as your vehicle) to top off if needed.
  • Degreaser (like Simple Green or brake cleaner) for cleaning oil residue off engine surfaces.
  • Shop towels or rags.
  • Disposable gloves.

Oil Catch Can Filter (if not included)

Some catch cans use a replaceable foam or stainless steel mesh filter. Check your kit’s manual and order spare filters ahead of time. Summit Racing offers a wide selection.

Additional Tips for Nashville Installations

Nashville’s climate—hot and humid spring through fall, with occasional hard freezes in winter—presents specific challenges for catch can installations.

Weather-Resistant Materials

Use stainless steel hose clamps and silicone hoses rated for -60°F to 500°F. Avoid rubber hoses that soften in heat or crack in cold. For the catch can body, choose anodized aluminum or coated steel. Plastic bodies may degrade under Nashville sun if mounted near the engine bay’s top.

Choosing a Mounting Location

Mount the can in a spot where it’s easy to access for draining (every 3,000–5,000 miles). Common places include the inner fender well, strut tower, or along the firewall. Avoid areas directly above exhaust manifolds or near moving parts. In Nashville’s high humidity, consider a heated catch can (available from some brands) to prevent moisture from freezing in winter.

Vehicle-Specific Considerations

Vehicles popular in Nashville—like the Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, Toyota Tundra, and Honda Accord—each have unique PCV layouts. Obtain a repair manual (paper or digital) for your exact year and model. Online forums like F150Forum or Tundra Forum often have detailed catch can installation write-ups.

Where to Buy Tools and Supplies in Nashville

Don’t have everything on hand? Nashville has several options:

  • AutoZone (multiple locations) – carries basic catch can kits, hoses, clamps, and tools. Some stores allow tool rental (e.g., torque wrench).
  • O'Reilly Auto Parts – good selection of fittings and specialty tools like hose clamp pliers.
  • Advance Auto Parts – online order with same-day in-store pickup.
  • Nashville Performance Auto Parts (local shop) – may carry high-end catch can brands and custom bracketry.
  • Home Depot / Lowe’s – for hardware like stainless bolts, washers, and zip ties.
  • Amazon – wide variety of kits and parts with fast Prime shipping to Nashville.

Safety Precautions

Proper safety prevents injury and damage to your vehicle.

  • Always work in a well-ventilated area. Nashville’s summer heat makes garages hot; use a fan and take breaks.
  • Wear safety glasses and mechanics gloves. Oil and debris can spray when removing hoses.
  • Ensure the engine is cold before touching the PCV system. Hot oil can cause burns.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal if working near sensors or electrical connections.
  • Use jack stands if you need to access lower engine areas—never rely on a floor jack alone.
  • Dispose of waste oil and old parts responsibly. Nashville’s Water Services Department offers household hazardous waste collection centers for oil and coolant.

Step-by-Step Installation Overview

While this article focuses on tools and supplies, here is a brief outline of the process to help you understand what tools you’ll actually use:

  1. Locate the PCV valve and intake hose. Refer to your vehicle’s manual.
  2. Disconnect the PCV hose from the intake manifold.
  3. Mount the catch can in a suitable location using bracket and drill if needed.
  4. Route new hose from PCV valve to catch can inlet, and from catch can outlet back to intake.
  5. Secure all connections with hose clamps.
  6. Reconnect battery and start engine. Check for leaks at idle.
  7. Test drive and recheck loose clamps after heat cycles.

For detailed instructions, consult a video guide such as this YouTube tutorial.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the right tools, installers in Nashville often make these errors:

  • Using rubber hose instead of silicone: Rubber hardens and cracks within a year in Nashville’s temperature swings.
  • Routing hoses too close to exhaust: Heat melts hose and degrades oil separation.
  • Forgetting a check valve for turbo engines: Without it, boost pressure can push oil back through the PCV, causing leaks.
  • Mounting the can upside down or sideways: This prevents proper drainage and reduces efficiency.
  • Skipping a pre-installation inspection: Check PCV valve operation and look for existing oil leaks before adding a catch can.

Maintenance After Installation

A catch can is not “set and forget.” Regular maintenance keeps it working:

  • Drain the collected oil and water every oil change (3,000–5,000 miles). In Nashville’s damp climate, check more frequently in winter.
  • Clean or replace the filter element per manufacturer instructions.
  • Inspect hoses for cracking or swelling every 6 months.
  • Check mounting bolts for loosening due to vibration.

Conclusion

Installing a catch can in Nashville is a rewarding project that protects your engine from carbon buildup and oil contamination. By assembling the right tools—socket set, wrenches, drill, torque wrench—and quality supplies like silicone hoses, proper fittings, and a well-matched catch can kit, you ensure a clean, efficient installation. Take advantage of local auto parts stores and online resources, follow safety precautions, and respect Nashville’s climate when selecting materials. With the preparation outlined here, you’ll keep your engine running smoothly for many miles on Music City roads.