ECS/Turner Catch Can

g00b86

Lurker
Nov 11, 2016
16
6
0
NJ
Hello all!
Before I even begin I realize that this goes against convention as almost everyone runs (traditionally) the BMS system with an upgraded PCV valve from either VTT or RB. Last year I believe it was Mishimoto that offered a new catch can setup that had a more convenient mounting location near the driver side headlight that did not require the removal of the cowl to empty the can. While passively searching around back in November I noticed ECS had an offering that had ZERO user info out there. When I called to inquire about some more information about it I was told the kit was not ready for release and shouldn't be on the site. The mounting location was on the passenger side strut tower. It can be found here:

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-ecs-par...WmZF23NNJDQ-_c0iKbYr0aj-xV0sjH0zHQRoCJ3nw_wcB

Every week I would check back and noticed this week it was replaced with this new link. A driver side mount system. What is most interesting to me is the fact that if you read the install instructions, it uses a plug in the stock PCV valve location. I had originally intended on using an RB/VTT style PCV replacement valve. Based on the lengthy OCC discussions I have read, especially from those running ST or upgraded twins from this site, BB and N54Tech. I wanted to see what some of the more experienced users thought of a system like this. I understand this might not be the most prolific post made here but I thought it would be an interesting conversation for a little known setup. Looking forward to everyone's input!

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-ecs-par...ed-oil-catch-can-system/003779ecs~dk/?pdk=AQI

Edit: I just re-read the install instructions and at the very end they state:

"When the temperature reaches freezing and below, we recommend disconnecting the feed and return lines and installing the original PCV hose between the intake pipe and PCV valve assembly." This is the first time I have heard of a freezing issue with running a catch can.
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: doublespaces

doublespaces

Administrator
Oct 18, 2016
9,303
4,331
0
AZ
Ride
2009 E93 335i
Hello all!
Before I even begin I realize that this goes against convention as almost everyone runs (traditionally) the BMS system with an upgraded PCV valve from either VTT or RB. Last year I believe it was Mishimoto that offered a new catch can setup that had a more convenient mounting location near the driver side headlight that did not require the removal of the cowl to empty the can. While passively searching around back in November I noticed ECS had an offering that had ZERO user info out there. When I called to inquire about some more information about it I was told the kit was not ready for release and shouldn't be on the site. The mounting location was on the passenger side strut tower. It can be found here:

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-ecs-par...WmZF23NNJDQ-_c0iKbYr0aj-xV0sjH0zHQRoCJ3nw_wcB

Every week I would check back and noticed this week it was replaced with this new link. A driver side mount system. What is most interesting to me is the fact that if you read the install instructions, it uses a plug in the stock PCV valve location. I had originally intended on using an RB/VTT style PCV replacement valve. Based on the lengthy OCC discussions I have read, especially from those running ST or upgraded twins from this site, BB and N54Tech. I wanted to see what some of the more experienced users thought of a system like this. I understand this might not be the most prolific post made here but I thought it would be an interesting conversation for a little known setup. Looking forward to everyone's input!

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-ecs-par...ed-oil-catch-can-system/003779ecs~dk/?pdk=AQI

Edit: I just re-read the install instructions and at the very end they state:

"When the temperature reaches freezing and below, we recommend disconnecting the feed and return lines and installing the original PCV hose between the intake pipe and PCV valve assembly." This is the first time I have heard of a freezing issue with running a catch can.

So, did you choose to go with the mishimoto? Or do you have the BMS can? I wasn't really very clear on that one. I don't know if there is much of a discernible difference between this and the mishimoto anyway?
 

g00b86

Lurker
Nov 11, 2016
16
6
0
NJ
Sorry for the lack of clarity. I have not bought any setup but I was most inclinded to buy this ECS setup. The only thing holding me back was the concerns of plugging that port over the more popular upgraded valve and the disclaimer about freezing temperatures and basically uninstalling the unit. I'm in NJ so freezing temps are a reality for me. This is the first I've heard regarding removal of a system due to potential frozen water vapor in a catch can. I assumed everyone leaves theirs installed and has no real issue.
 

doublespaces

Administrator
Oct 18, 2016
9,303
4,331
0
AZ
Ride
2009 E93 335i
@Jason@Propulsive-Dynamics is the PCV genius, he could probably tell you what would or wouldn't be appropriate. I mean, I know he's going to tell you to ditch the whole PCV system itself and replace it with something adequate(What I'm going to do) however if you decided to not go that route, maybe he could give you insight on second best option.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Euro venom

g00b86

Lurker
Nov 11, 2016
16
6
0
NJ
I appreciate that. This is a stock daily so I'm strictly looking at this as a supplement to the poor factory setup. I'm not pushing big power nor am I looking to tap/block the stock ports and run a high and low pressure setup that some of the ST guys are using.
 

Euro venom

Specialist
Nov 5, 2016
95
94
0
Tualatin, or
@Jason@Propulsive-Dynamics is the PCV genius, he could probably tell you what would or wouldn't be appropriate. I mean, I know he's going to tell you to ditch the whole PCV system itself and replace it with something adequate(What I'm going to do) however if you decided to not go that route, maybe he could give you insight on second best option.
What is the benefit of deleting the PCV system all together?
 

Icewall

Lurker
Nov 3, 2016
18
13
0
NJ
This has been discussed before on other forums. There will always be another way to do things.

Personally I run an external RB pcv kit that uses a mishimoto catch can. It works well and upgrades your pcv valve in the process. I used to run a BMS catch can on the high side but with both catch cans the BMS one caught about 2 drops of oil after 50 runs.

From what I've seen available I'd recommend an RB pcv kit with mishimoto can mounted on the passenger side. I also live in NJ and while I don't drive it much in the winter I haven't had any issues the times I did drive it.

Maybe there is a better setup but I think the RB/mishimoto kit is adequate and works well. Just don't put it on the driver's side, that makes it catch and store water.
 

g00b86

Lurker
Nov 11, 2016
16
6
0
NJ
Thanks for everyone's feedback. I think the thing that really has made me question this setup is the blocking of the OEM PCV valve itself. It any thread I have found thus far, ONLY the RB/VTT pcv upgrade is discussed. Nothing about the concept of a block-off.

My thoughts are that this would result in MORE oil vapor capture. I am sure the baffle design of the can itself, which differs greatly from the mishimoto can, would play a part in this. Does anyone have any idea as to this being a functional design or detrimental in any way?
 

Icewall

Lurker
Nov 3, 2016
18
13
0
NJ
The only block off I've seen is to block the 6 small head openings for the stock pcv, but this AFAIK is now only used when externalizing the pcv system. This external system also involves the use of a pcv valve so there isnt really a block of the pcv system just a rerouting/externalizing.

there are more ways to do it but i don't believe any involve truly blocking off the pcv system.
 
  • Like
Reactions: doublespaces

g00b86

Lurker
Nov 11, 2016
16
6
0
NJ
another thing i just noticed is that it doesn't seem like there is much hope of it clearing with an upgraded CP/BOV. And if you have relocated your coolant tank (it looks like it shares the same area) many people are already having issues with BOV clearance on that front. I don't have any of those items but it is certainly something to keep in mind. I don't know what caused them to go away from the passenger side mount. It seemed like a better fit to me.
 

doublespaces

Administrator
Oct 18, 2016
9,303
4,331
0
AZ
Ride
2009 E93 335i
another thing i just noticed is that it doesn't seem like there is much hope of it clearing with an upgraded CP/BOV. And if you have relocated your coolant tank (it looks like it shares the same area) many people are already having issues with BOV clearance on that front. I don't have any of those items but it is certainly something to keep in mind. I don't know what caused them to go away from the passenger side mount. It seemed like a better fit to me.

I can't speak this can itself, but you can probably mount it somewhere else which will clear your CP.