Tracy Lewis Performance builds a patented air/oil separating crankcase evacuation system for Mini Cooper applications. It is not a generic catch can — each kit is built to order for a specific engine. Three Mini applications are documented, covering both the N14 and N18 turbo engines.
Documented Mini applications
| Vehicle | Engine | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 Mini Cooper S | Turbo | Full installation walkthrough on video, below |
| 2016 Mini | N18 turbo | Installation instructions (PDF) |
| Mini | N14 turbo | Installation instructions (PDF) |
Installation walkthrough
This is an installation and explanation of the Tracy Lewis Catch Can system performed on a 2012 Mini Cooper S.
Why the N14 and N18 need one
Both engines are turbocharged and direct injected, which is the combination that produces intake valve deposits. With no fuel washing across the back of the valves, oil vapour drawn through the PCV system bakes on as carbon, costing airflow and smoothness. Boost adds to it by driving more blow-by past the rings and raising crankcase pressure when the engine is working hardest.
A conventional catch can only collects oil that has already left the engine. The Tracy Lewis system does more:
- Full-time crankcase vacuum keeps the crankcase under vacuum continuously, so pressure never builds and oil is not forced past seals or back into the intake tract.
- Clean Side Separator, included with every kit, stops oil ingestion upstream of the throttle body — a path an ordinary catch can does not reach.
What the kit includes
- Patented air/oil separating crankcase evacuation system, built to order for your engine
- Clean Side Separator, included as standard
- Billet aluminum check valves. Above 12 psi of boost you will need the high-performance check valve on the intake manifold side
- Gates Push-Lok hose as standard, with Gates Barricade or black braided hose available as upgrades
- All fittings and hardware needed for the installation
Ordering
There is a dedicated Mini Cooper special edition catch can. It is a phone order only, so call us to confirm fitment for your car before ordering, or e-mail us directly at apdeg@aol.com. Kits are built per vehicle, so allow a short lead time.
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 Mini engines are covered?
Both the N14 and the N18 turbo engines have published installation instructions, and there is a full video walkthrough filmed on a 2012 Mini Cooper S.
How do I order the Mini kit?
The Mini Cooper special edition catch can is a phone order only. Call us, or e-mail apdeg@aol.com, so we can confirm fitment for your car before the kit is built.
Do I need the high-performance check valve?
Only above 12 psi of boost. It fits the intake manifold side; the standard valve is used on the opposite side.
How long does it take to arrive?
Each kit 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.