Tracy Lewis Performance builds a patented air/oil separating crankcase evacuation system for Volkswagen applications. It is not a generic catch can — each kit is built to order for a specific engine, and the documented Volkswagen application is the GTI.
Documented Volkswagen application
| Vehicle | Reference |
|---|---|
| 2012 Volkswagen GTI | Full installation walkthrough on video, below |
If you have a different Volkswagen, e-mail us at apdeg@aol.com before ordering so we can confirm fitment and build the kit correctly for your engine.
Installation walkthrough
This is an installation and explanation of the Tracy Lewis Catch Can system performed on a 2012 VW GTI.
Why a turbocharged, direct-injected VW needs one
The TSI family is direct injected and turbocharged, which is the combination that causes intake valve deposits. With no fuel washing the back of the valves, oil vapour carried through the PCV system bakes on as carbon, and boost pushes more blow-by past the rings, 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 addresses the cause as well:
- 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
Order through the Tracy Lewis Catch Can and give us your vehicle details when you order, or e-mail us directly at apdeg@aol.com first to confirm fitment. 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 Volkswagen does the Tracy Lewis catch can fit?
The documented application is the 2012 VW GTI, with a full installation walkthrough on video. E-mail us to confirm fitment for other Volkswagen models before ordering.
Why do turbocharged direct-injection engines need this?
Direct injection means no fuel washes the back of the intake valves, so oil vapour bakes on as carbon. Boost adds blow-by and crankcase pressure on top of that. The system holds vacuum on the crankcase and separates oil before it can reach the intake.
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.