hand-filer
Well-Known Member
- First Name
- Fred
- Joined
- May 16, 2024
- Threads
- 10
- Messages
- 631
- Reaction score
- 1,013
- Location
- Manitoba, Canada
- Vehicle(s)
- 2024 Ranger Lariat FX4
A number of years back, I placed the contents of my catch can outside. That night it went down to -36C. The next morning the contents was still in a liquid state. Evidently there are enough volatile compounds mixed in with the water to keep it from freezing at that temperature. In the Yukon it gets considerably colder so YMMV.I called into IAG, spoke with a rep she was very honest and quite knowledgable, I am very impressed with IAG service.
She informed me that in extreme frozen temps in Canada they have had complications with freezing with this kit, and in a worst case scenario even a coolant leak. Unfortunately I don't think freezing is something that can be avoided for us northern Canucks.
You are introducing moisture into a closed system in subzero temps. It will condense, and when the engine cools in -40, it will freeze. Yes, this kit thaws it out and delays freezing since it is heated but nothing will stop it completely unless you keep engine running 24/7.
That said because of the high mounting point in the raptor she is confident previous issues should be mitigated in our particular model. I think I believe her, as logically the moisture should run "downhill" before freezing and not clog tubing or the can intake.
I think the main thing for winter catch can setups in the North is just not letting the can fill too much to the point where it freezes and clogs intake ports or lines, causing a blockage, and probably some annual maintenance flushing out lines every fall to make sure they aren't clogged.
So for subzero raptor owners it comes down to this:
-IAG AOS is more complex, but theoretically maintenance free. However if it clogs, you probably wont know until it is too late, and there is a risk of coolant if things go really sideways.
-Traditional catch can setups should be emptied frequently in extreme temps, and as such you will be forced to keep your eye on whats happening within the circuit, so In theory you should notice if something is clogged.
In the end i went with a custom UPR dual kit and I will add a silicone heater\cozy for the catch can to dethaw like the IAG. I decided to go this route because a UPR kit can be removed and returned to stock within minutes for warranty visits, and I would prefer to check on what is being filtered periodically during extreme cold snaps. Plus to declog, just remove 4 quick release lines, bring inside, and thaw.
but If I didn't live in the Yukon, i would opt for the IAG
I would advise to check the contents weekly in below freezing weather. This is easy to do with a basic Oil separator like a J&L canister style.
Sponsored