An oil breather tank, also known as an oil catch tank, serves an important role in maintaining engine cleanliness and performance by preventing oil contamination in the intake system. It's particularly beneficial in vehicles subjected to high-performance driving or modifications that increase engine performance.
Function: The primary function of an oil breather tank is to intercept the oil vapours that are produced as a natural byproduct of the combustion process in the engine. These vapours contain oil mist and other contaminants.
Prevention of Oil Build-Up: By capturing these vapours, the oil breather tank prevents them from accumulating inside the intake manifold and other intake components. This helps prevent carbon build-up and keeps the intake system cleaner.
Improves Engine Efficiency: By reducing the amount of oil residue circulating through the intake system, a breather tank can help maintain more consistent air-fuel ratios and improve overall engine efficiency.
Performance and Aesthetics: In addition to their functional benefits, oil breather tanks are sometimes used in performance applications for aesthetic purposes, especially in modified or tuned vehicles.