Tracy Lewis Performance builds a patented air/oil separating crankcase evacuation system for Honda applications. It is not a generic catch can. Each kit is built to order for a specific engine, and the documented Honda application is the Ridgeline 3.5L V6.
Documented Honda application
| Vehicle | Engine | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 Honda Ridgeline | 3.5L V6 | Installation instructions (PDF) |
If you have a different year or another Honda or Acura, e-mail us at apdeg@aol.com before ordering so we can confirm fitment and build the kit correctly for your engine.
What the installation involves
- Remove the engine cover and the trim above the radiator for access. Keep the factory clamps and lines in case you ever return to stock.
- The separator mounts to the existing steel bracket that carries a wiring harness; the harness is zip-tied back out of the way.
- Three hoses: the valve cover connects to the center inlet of the separator, the intake manifold connects to one outlet through a check valve, and the other outlet runs through a check valve to a Venturi vacuum generator in the intake coupler.
- The Venturi is bonded into the coupler with RTV or Permatex Right Stuff and left to cure overnight. With an aftermarket cold air intake it goes between the MAF sensor and the throttle body.
The full step-by-step, with photos, is in the installation instructions.
Why a direct-injection V6 needs more than a catch can
Direct-injection engines have no fuel washing over the back of the intake valves, so oil vapour carried through the PCV system bakes onto the valves as carbon. Over time that costs airflow, smoothness and economy, and cleaning it means pulling the intake off. If you are new to the subject, What Does an Oil Catch Can Do? covers the fundamentals.
A basic catch can only collects oil that has already left the engine. The Tracy Lewis system does two additional things:
- Full-time crankcase vacuum. The system keeps the crankcase under vacuum continuously, so pressure never builds and oil is not pushed past seals or back into the intake tract.
- Separate evacuation paths for idle and load. The intake manifold provides suction at idle and cruise, and the Venturi provides it under load, with check valves switching between the two automatically.
Ordering
Order through the Tracy Lewis Catch Can and tell us your vehicle when you order, or e-mail us directly at apdeg@aol.com first if you want fitment confirmed. Each kit is built specifically for the vehicle, so allow a short lead time before shipment.
Further guides for other makes are on the catch can installation instructions hub, and the full catch can range lists every vehicle-specific kit.
Please e-mail us directly at apdeg@aol.com for more information. Beware of knock-offs being marketed under the same brand name — buy direct to be certain you are getting the patented system.
Frequently asked questions
Which Honda does the Tracy Lewis catch can fit?
The documented application is the 2023 Honda Ridgeline 3.5L V6. E-mail us to confirm fitment for other years or other Honda and Acura models before ordering.
Does it work with an aftermarket cold air intake?
Yes. With an aftermarket cold air intake, the Venturi installs between the MAF sensor and the throttle body. The instructions cover both setups.
How long does the kit take to arrive?
Each order is built specifically for your vehicle, so there is a short lead time before shipment.
Is a catch can legal where I live?
Some states, California in particular, regulate changes to vehicle emissions systems. Check your local rules before ordering.