Delete PCV breather system?

Jazzop · Post by **Jazzop** » 23 Nov 2012, 18:48

I'm surprised that a web search on this topic has yielded nothing. Surely there is a concise guide on how to strip the PCV system from the car and replace it with a simple filtered vent to the atmosphere. Is there some hidden, critical electronic system that is powered by the delicate air/oil vapor piped in by the PCV system? Or are Volvo owners crunchier (as in granola) than other car enthusiasts? I have a 1996 850 NA I want to simplicate and add lightness to.

Post by **rspi** » 23 Nov 2012, 19:12

Some have installed a catch can. Maybe you can google that. Good luck with it.

Rocky · Post by **Rocky** » 24 Nov 2012, 04:14

Jazzop · Post by **Jazzop** » 21 Dec 2012, 23:46

Why delete it?

1. It apparently requires frequent cleaning/maintenance, whereas an open system will generally only require cleaning the terminal filter or catch can.

2. The stock location is inconvenient to access, whereas a custom setup can be located for greater ease of access.

3. The stock system has numerous hoses, fittings, and plastic bits, each of which represents a potential point of failure. A custom system could have as few as 3 parts, which could be made of more durable materials such as aluminum, silicone, etc.

Post by **erikv11** » 22 Dec 2012, 00:13

You forgot to mention: a custom system that vents to air will throw a lot of oil, and result in a lot more oil consumption.

Custom PCV setups are very popular on Volvospeed, you may want to do some searching and reading over there in the performance forum. Or look at Swedespeed.

Post by **jblackburn** » 22 Dec 2012, 08:58

You'll use more oil than with a clogged PCV system. And have yucky smells. Not sure what the point is.

Jazzop · Post by **Jazzop** » 22 Dec 2012, 20:45

erikv11 wrote:You forgot to mention: a custom system that vents to air will throw a lot of oil, and result in a lot more oil consumption.

Custom PCV setups are very popular on Volvospeed, you may want to do some searching and reading over there in the performance forum.

Thanks, I just found that site yesterday and they seem to have more likeminded users. I guess this site is more for the stock/OEM crowd.

BTW, a vented system need not puff black smoke or smell like an oil refinery, as some suggest. I have plenty of experience with open breathers on older cars, and with intelligent routing of plumbing and a gauze breather filter, the system should be fine. I was just hoping someone could point me to successfully engineered solutions so that I don't have to engineer my own from scratch. And as a classic British car enthusiast, I actually enjoy a bit of an oily smell in the cockpit.

Post by **erikv11** » 22 Dec 2012, 23:33

Cool. If you come up with something, post it up.