Oil Catch Can

I've been meaning to buy an oil catch can, but didn't want to spend $200+ on a name brand can. Nor did I want to buy a $20 cheapie on eBay.

I can't take any credit for this DIY, but I found a ton of people online using this method, so I figured I'd try it out myself.

First you need an air compressor filter. Home Depot sells one that fits the bill for only $11

The filter has a directional air flow, it comes in from one tube, is directed downwards, then at the top is an exit to the second tube. But it's not a direct path since there's a plastic bit in the way. This forces the air to touch the sides of the tube and hopefully change from oil in gas form to oil in liquid form, before it's sent off into your intake - and into your intercooler.

You do not need the actual filter inside, so I took it out. But the filter holds up a plastic disk with prevents direct access to the exit hole. So I found a brass lug nut/screw thing that was lying around in my toolbox and used that to hold the plastic disk in place. You could also break up the filter and retain the black plastic nut that came with the unit.

Home Depot also sold larger air filters, but I didn't bother for my first attempt. The bottom of the unit has a push pin that allows oil to be drained. You could also unscrew the transparent part and pour it out.

The second thing you need are the brass screws that attach to the sides of the filter. I don't have any before photos, but you'll find them sold right next to where you picked up the air filter. They ran me about $1.20 each. You'll need two.

Now cut into your return line and put the filter in place. The size of the fittings on the side of the filter will exactly fit the hose that your car already has.

I'm currently in progress of making my own CAI, so for the time being mine's zip tied. I'll have better photos of it later.

the top of the filter has mounting holes btw

Total cost: ~$17. This includes tax, and some thread sealant tape.