I installed a K&N oil catch can on my 2014–2018 K2XX Sierra (5.3L EcoTec3), replacing the factory PCV routing. Full video walkthrough below, plus the parts, instructions, and a look at what the can actually caught after ~60 miles.
Parts Used
- K&N Oil Catch Can — P/N 81-0805: Amazon.ca
Installation Instructions
View the full K&N installation guide (PDF)
I went with the K&N kit over the cheaper Amazon / Evil Energy–style cans mainly because the can itself is larger — less frequent draining on a daily driver. The kits are otherwise basically identical, so if you go the cheap route, the instructions above still apply.
Tools Needed
- Flat-blade screwdriver (release the factory PCV lines)
- 2.5mm Allen (small can set screws)
- 8mm and 10mm sockets (bracket-to-firewall hardware)
Install Summary
- Remove the factory PCV lines by depressing the gray quick-connect buttons at the valve cover and intake manifold. The lower line is the tricky one — needle-nose pliers help.
- Mount the can with the separator facing down so oil collects properly, then bolt the bracket to the firewall. Keep the tiny can bolts bagged until you need them — they’re easy to drop and lose.
- Assemble the quick-disconnect fittings (tape/dope them; don’t overtighten into the separator).
- Lightly coat the O-rings with oil (a little WD-40 works) and route the two hoses — lower first, then upper.
Full step-by-step is in the video and the PDF above.
After ~60 Miles
Pulled the can after about 60 miles of normal driving — and there was already oil sitting in the bottom. That tells me it’s doing its job: catching oil vapor before it gets recirculated and burned in the head.
A catch can isn’t a magic fix, but it intercepts and reduces the oil vapor heading back to the intake. I’ll keep this thread updated as the miles add up — next up is plugs and wires. Running one on your K2XX? Drop questions below.