Does your 2018 F150 EcoBoost 3.5 engine sometimes feel like it’s not running its best? You might be surprised to learn that a common issue with these powerful trucks involves something called “blow-by.” This is when exhaust gases sneak past your piston rings and into your engine’s oil system. It can lead to gunk building up, hurting your engine’s performance and lifespan.
Choosing the right catch can to combat this problem can feel overwhelming. There are so many brands and types out there, and figuring out which one is truly effective for your specific truck can be a real headache. You want to protect your investment, but the sheer number of choices makes it tough to know where to start. What if you pick the wrong one and it doesn’t even work?
That’s where this guide comes in. We’re going to break down exactly what you need to know about catch cans for your 2018 F150 EcoBoost 3.5. By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand the benefits, the key features to look for, and how to make a smart choice that keeps your engine running smoothly and powerfully for years to come. Get ready to learn how to give your truck the protection it deserves.
Our Top 5 Catch Cans For 2018 F150 Ecoboost 3.5 Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Catch Cans For 2018 F150 Ecoboost 3.5 Detailed Reviews
1. EVIL ENERGY Oil Catch Can
Rating: 8.5/10
Keep your F-150, Raptor, or Expedition engine running at its best with the EVIL ENERGY Oil Catch Can. This handy device works to capture unwanted oil vapor and other gunk that can build up in your engine. By separating this stuff out, it helps your engine last longer and perform more smoothly. It’s designed to fit right into your truck’s engine bay and looks good while doing its job.
What We Like:
- Wide compatibility with many F-150, Raptor, and Expedition models, including supercharged versions.
- Effectively catches oil and contaminants to protect your engine.
- Uses a fine mesh aluminum filter for great filtration.
- Easy to empty and clean with a rotating base and leak-proof O-ring seal.
- Comes with everything you need for a simple installation, including hoses, brackets, and clear instructions.
- Designed to look good and blend in with your engine.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s recommended to check and clean the catch can every 500-1000 miles, which might be more frequent than some owners prefer.
This oil catch can is a smart upgrade for anyone looking to maintain their truck’s engine health. It offers excellent protection and a straightforward installation process.
2. Ryanstar Oil Catch Can Kit Oil Separator Reservoir Tank Baffled Compatible with Ford F150 2.7EB 3.5EB 5.0L Passenger Side 2011-2021，Raptor 3.5L Ecoboost 2017-2021
Rating: 8.8/10
Keep your Ford F150, Raptor, or Expedition running smoothly with the Ryanstar Oil Catch Can Kit. This handy device helps trap oil and dirt before they can enter your engine’s intake system. This keeps your engine cleaner, which can lead to better performance and a longer lifespan. It’s designed to fit many popular Ford models from 2011 to 2021, including those with superchargers.
What We Like:
- It helps keep your engine clean, protecting it from gunk.
- This can lead to a bit more horsepower and a longer-lasting engine.
- Installation is made easier with a flexible mounting bracket.
- The 400ml capacity is good for regular use.
- It’s built strong with Tig welding and O-rings to stop leaks.
- Cleaning is simple; you just unscrew the bottom.
- It’s lightweight and easy to put in your truck.
What Could Be Improved:
- The fitment list is quite long, so double-check it matches your exact vehicle.
This catch can kit offers a practical way to maintain your Ford’s engine health. It’s a solid upgrade for drivers who want to protect their investment.
3. YESHMA Oil Catch Can Compatible with Ford F150 5.0L 2.7EB 3.5EB 2011-2024
Rating: 8.6/10
Keep your Ford F150 or Expedition running smoothly with the YESHMA Oil Catch Can. This handy device is designed to protect your engine by catching oil and blow-by gasses before they can cause trouble. It fits a wide range of Ford trucks and SUVs, including the F150 models with 5.0L, 2.7L EcoBoost, and 3.5L EcoBoost engines from 2011 to 2024, as well as the Expedition with the 3.5L EcoBoost from 2018 to 2021. This catch can helps prevent gunk from building up on your engine’s intake valves, which means your engine stays cleaner and performs better.
What We Like:
- Wide Application: It fits many popular Ford F150 and Expedition models.
- Enhanced Filtration: You can add steel wire balls for even better filtering.
- Durable Build: It’s made of strong aluminum that can handle heat and pressure.
- Leak-Proof Design: The O-ring seal stops leaks, and the dipstick makes checking oil easy.
- Engine Protection: It helps prevent carbon buildup, keeping your engine clean and running well.
- Simple Installation: All the necessary parts, like hoses and mounting hardware, are included.
What Could Be Improved:
- Filter Option Clarity: The description mentions a catch can “without filter” that “can only be used as a seal can,” which could be clearer about its function.
This YESHMA Oil Catch Can is a smart upgrade for any compatible Ford owner. It offers great protection and is easy to install, helping your engine stay in top shape.
4. JDMON Oil Catch Can
Rating: 8.6/10
Keep your Ford F-150, Expedition, or Raptor engine running smoothly and cleanly with the JDMON Oil Catch Can. This red oil separator is designed to catch nasty oil and moisture before they can gum up your engine’s intake system. It’s made from tough aluminum, so it can handle the heat and pressure under your hood. Plus, it fits a bunch of Ford models from 2011 to 2021.
What We Like:
- Built tough with durable, high-temperature resistant anodized aluminum.
- Helps keep your engine’s intake system clean by catching oil and moisture.
- This can help your engine run better and last longer.
- Easy to install in less than 30 minutes with included mounting brackets.
- You can check the oil level easily with the built-in dipstick.
- Cleaning is a breeze – just unscrew the bottom part.
- It comes in a cool red color.
What Could Be Improved:
- The fitment list is quite specific, so double-check your exact vehicle model and year.
This JDMON Oil Catch Can is a smart upgrade for any Ford truck owner looking to protect their engine. It’s a simple way to maintain engine health and performance.
5. JDMON Oil Catch Can
Rating: 9.3/10
Keep your Ford truck or Expedition running smoothly with the JDMON Oil Catch Can. This handy passenger-side oil separator is designed to catch oil and moisture before they can build up gunk in your engine’s intake system. It’s a great way to protect your engine and keep it clean.
What We Like:
- Built tough with anodized aluminum, this catch can resists high temperatures and pressure, so it lasts a long time.
- It fits many Ford models, including F-150s (2.7EB, 3.5EB, 5.0L), Expeditions (3.5L EcoBoost), and Raptors (3.5L Ecoboost) from various years.
- By catching oil and moisture, it helps prevent carbon and sludge buildup, keeping your engine cleaner and potentially boosting horsepower.
- You can mount it in different ways to make it fit perfectly in your vehicle.
- Installation is quick, usually under 30 minutes.
- Checking the oil level is easy with the built-in dipstick, no need to open the can.
- Cleaning is a breeze; just unscrew the bottom part.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for passenger side installation, some users might find the specific fitment a bit tight depending on their exact engine setup.
- The 350ml capacity is good, but for heavy-duty use or longer intervals between checks, a larger capacity might be desired by some.
This JDMON oil catch can is a solid choice for protecting your Ford’s engine. It’s easy to install and maintain, offering good value for keeping your engine cleaner.
Catch Cans for Your 2018 F-150 EcoBoost 3.5: A Smart Upgrade
Your 2018 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine is a powerful truck. To keep it running smoothly for years to come, many owners consider installing a catch can. This simple device can help protect your engine from harmful gunk. Let’s dive into what you need to know before you buy.
Why Use a Catch Can?
The EcoBoost engines use a process called “blow-by.” This is when some exhaust gases sneak past the piston rings and into the crankcase. These gases carry oil vapor and other contaminants. Without a catch can, this oily mist gets recirculated back into your engine’s intake system. Over time, this gunk builds up on your engine’s valves. This can hurt performance and efficiency. A catch can traps this oily mist before it reaches your intake.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing a catch can for your F-150 EcoBoost, keep these features in mind:
- Capacity: How much oil can the can hold before it needs emptying? Larger capacity means less frequent maintenance.
- Ease of Installation: Look for kits designed specifically for your 2018 F-150 EcoBoost. This usually means direct-fit hoses and mounting brackets.
- Drainage Method: Some cans have a simple drain valve at the bottom. Others might require you to unbolt the can. A drain valve makes emptying much easier.
- Filtration: While most catch cans are simple separators, some may have internal filters. These can help catch finer particles.
- Baffling: Good internal baffling helps the oil vapor condense and collect effectively.
Important Materials
The materials used in a catch can affect its durability and performance.
- Aluminum: Many high-quality catch cans are made from aluminum. It’s lightweight, strong, and resists corrosion.
- Steel: Some components might be steel, especially for mounting brackets. Ensure it’s coated to prevent rust.
- Hoses: Look for oil-resistant rubber or silicone hoses. They should be flexible enough to route easily but tough enough to withstand engine bay temperatures.
- Seals and Gaskets: These need to be oil and heat resistant to prevent leaks.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a catch can better or worse.
- Precision Machining: Well-machined cans have tight tolerances, ensuring a good seal and preventing leaks. Cheaply made cans might have rough edges or poor fits.
- Quality of Hoses and Fittings: High-quality, oil-resistant hoses and secure fittings are crucial. Poor hoses can crack or leak. Loose fittings can lead to air leaks, reducing the catch can’s effectiveness.
- Design of Internal Baffles: A well-designed baffle system maximizes the surface area for oil vapor to condense. A simple design might not capture as much oil.
- Included Mounting Hardware: A complete kit with all necessary brackets and hardware makes installation much smoother. Missing parts can be frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
Most users find installing a catch can to be a straightforward process. The benefits are usually seen over time.
- Cleaner Intake Valves: This is the primary benefit. You’ll notice less oil buildup on your valves when you inspect them.
- Improved Engine Performance: By keeping the intake clean, your engine can breathe better, potentially leading to smoother acceleration and consistent power.
- Reduced Oil Consumption: In some cases, catch cans can help reduce oil consumption by capturing oil that might otherwise be burned.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re protecting your engine from harmful deposits gives you peace of mind.
Emptying the catch can is part of the maintenance. This usually involves a quick drain every few thousand miles, depending on driving conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a catch can?
A: A catch can is a device that traps oil vapor and other contaminants from your engine’s crankcase before they can enter the intake system.
Q: Do I really need a catch can on my 2018 F-150 EcoBoost 3.5?
A: While not strictly required, a catch can is highly recommended by many owners to help prevent long-term oil buildup on intake valves, which can affect performance.
Q: Will a catch can void my warranty?
A: Generally, installing a catch can does not void your warranty, especially if it’s a quality product designed for your vehicle and installed correctly. However, it’s always wise to check your owner’s manual or consult your dealer.
Q: How often do I need to empty the catch can?
A: This depends on your driving habits. Most owners check and empty their catch can every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. You might need to check it more often if you do a lot of short trips or drive in dusty conditions.
Q: Is a catch can hard to install?
A: For most DIYers, installing a catch can is a relatively simple job. Many kits come with specific instructions and all the necessary hardware for your F-150 EcoBoost.
Q: What is “blow-by”?
A: Blow-by is when exhaust gases leak past the piston rings into the crankcase. This is normal to some extent, but the gases carry oil mist that a catch can helps to collect.
Q: Can I use a generic catch can, or do I need one made for my F-150?
A: While generic cans exist, it’s best to get one specifically designed for your 2018 F-150 EcoBoost 3.5. These kits usually include the correct hoses and mounting brackets for an easy installation.
Q: What happens if I don’t empty the catch can?
A: If the catch can fills up, the collected oil and moisture can overflow and re-enter your intake system, defeating the purpose of the can. It could also potentially cause issues.
Q: Will a catch can improve my fuel economy?
A: A catch can doesn’t directly improve fuel economy. However, by keeping your engine’s intake clean, it helps maintain optimal performance, which can indirectly lead to better efficiency.
Q: Where can I buy a good catch can for my truck?
A: You can find catch cans from reputable automotive parts retailers, online marketplaces like Amazon, and specialized Ford truck accessory websites.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.