I'm not sure if this is a cure or something you've already read about, but I just installed a ME Wagner duel flow pcv valve on basically your same motor. I was noticing blow by and gaskets weeping oil. Once dialed in per their instructions it appears the weeping has quit and oil blow by has been solved too. They suggest an oil catch can to be plumbed inline. I picked up a moroso can but haven't plumbed it because I'm not sure I need it. Time and miles will tell if I do I guess. If you haven't looked into them, maybe see what you think.
Thanks Matt, that looks interesting... What did you use on the other valve cover, a breather of any sort?
I think my issue is compounded by the type of driving I do on track, mainly on autocross runs. Multiple WOT blasts immediately followed by short closed throttle blades...then WOT once again. I think my current PCV setup just can't catch back up quick enough creating excessive crankcase pressure on the WOT blasts.
I don't really care about "pretty" on this engine anymore, I'm more concerned about function. But at the same time I'm more interested in a fix that will work with what I have instead of reinventing the wheel if that makes sense. Some sort of solution that will work with my existing grommets in both valve covers would be ideal for me.
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Lance
1985 Monte Carlo SS Street Car
I have a similar 383 (think 19" vac at idle) and have a similar breather on the passenger and PVC on the driver and haven't experience any problems after installing a Moroso catch can between the PVC valve and the throttle body. The amount of nasty crap at the bottom of the catch can is surprising considering it was going straight in to the engine before. I remember finding a great site that listed out the different breather setups (NA vs. turbo) that I'll try to find and post on this thread.
Hello,
I am running a MightyMouse Solutions Catch Can on my 540 BBC. My set-up includes a -12AN dirty side to catch can, and a 3/8 clean side to throttle body with a turbo car PCV valve. This significantly helped my set-up which originally consisted of one K&N breathers on top of each valve cover. Give Mighty Mouse a call, and he can help you with your application. These are very popular for twin turbo LS cars.
Thanks Brew... And that is an AWESOME illustration that deals with my current issue.
I now understand how that at high load WOT conditions, PCV valves will close instead of staying open causing a foul air condition and ALL blow by gases to exit the engine via the vent which in my current case is just a breather meant only to allow fresh air into the crank case.
Considering how much time my engine spends at high load WOT...this is all starting to make a lot more sense.
I'm thinking option 3 from the link is a good fix, twin catch cans with no PCV valve. This way air plenum and intake vacuum is pulled from both valve covers at all times under all conditions and all air coming from the crankcase goes thru an oil/air separator first before entering the engine to be consumed in the combustion chamber.
Now, to just find a couple affordable catch can separators and ways to plumb them to each valve cover opening.
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Lance
1985 Monte Carlo SS Street Car
Brian Hobaugh SCCA National Tour June 2014
First Hemi 'Cuda Convertible Ever Built
Short clips: Goodguys Pleasanton autocross and pit videos
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