Catch can

[EdMay]

Hi all. I just purchased a 2023 S3 with 38k miles. I have a list of things to do. Mainly, Haldex and DSG service, and adding a catch can. My apologies if there is a thread on this, I couldn't find one.
I've looked at several catch can brands. Not sure what to go with. I'd like to get a kit that has specific fittings for the PCV
system. I haven't looked at it yet but I'm assuming there's special fittings, (like my GMC Yukon has, click on fittings with internal orings). I'm open to using a universal catch can/hoses, but I would want very secure connections, which isn't easy without factory style connections.
Also, of course, I don't want to break the bank. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[GeorgeB]

You will race with that one?

 

[EdMay]

You will race with that one?

No racing, just sporty driving.

 

[EdMay]

Why do you ask?

 

[GeorgeB]

Why do you ask?

Because I believe you just want to show-off!

A catch can is unnecessary for sporty street driving on the Audi S3. The factory PCV system on the EA888 engine already features a highly effective multi-stage oil separator designed for aggressive road use.

On the street, high boost occurs only in brief bursts rather than continuous, prolonged track-style stress. Without the sustained high G-forces and constant near-redline RPMs of a race circuit, blow-by remains well within what the OEM system can manage.

Installing one actually adds drawbacks:

• Winter Risk: Moisture in the catch can freeze in cold weather, clogging the lines and damaging engine seals.
• Extra Maintenance: Requires routine draining for zero power gains.

Unless you run 20-minute track sessions or a Stage 3+ build, the stock setup provides complete protection.

 

[EdMay]

Ok, all that makes sense but a few things:
-I don't know if you are kidding around or are serious about the showing off thing but I am certainly not looking to show off.
I was looking for feedback from the forum, thats all.
Direct injection engines have a known problem with carbon buildup on intake valves since fuel isn't washing the valve like in port injection systems.
I have a GMC Yukon that had a LOT of buildup at 60k, that required walnut blasting. It did fix drivability issues I was having. I installed a catch can after that. Someday I will check the valves again but I'll certain they are still clean at 125k. It's not currently having the issues it had when the valves were caked. I have seen several reports online about intake valve carbon buildup on turbo 4 cylinder direct injection vehicles, including the 2023 S3. So, I'd like to hear from owners of similar vehicles to mine, have you looked at your intake valves? Are they caked? If so, why wouldn't a catch can help? I empty a couple tablespoons of watery/oily/milkshake shit from my Yukon catch can every few weeks. I am certain that crap would end up in the intake manifold and caked on the backs of the intake valves. I'm looking forward to your feedback. Thanks

 

[GeorgeB]

I seriously doubt owners of any 2023+ cars will dismount their cylinder heads to inspect if walnut care is required.
You should attend forums who engage in racing and other extreme car usages.
People here have no idea. When a failure occurs they just fire the parts cannon and replace whatever they can and hope for the best!
Even to use a multimeter in order to check the charging voltage of the alternator is way out of league for 99% of the members here. Way too advanced! They just replace the battery and is happy with that. Go figure!

 

[EdMay]

Ok George, thanks for your input.
Since you and I are both on this forum, it does prove that there are informed people on the forum.
Lets see if someone else has input.
Also, the cylinder head doesn't need to be "dismounted" (or REMOVED) to inspect intake valves for carbon buildup. The intake manifold gets removed for intake valve inspection/cleaning.

 

[GeorgeB]

Also, the cylinder head doesn't need to be "dismounted" (or REMOVED) to inspect intake valves for carbon buildup. The intake manifold gets removed for intake valve inspection/cleaning.

My error! Intake valves manifold of course!