The Importance of Positive Crankcase Ventilation and Rocker Cover Breathers

Let's start with positive crankcase ventilation

The positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve is a simple system that introduces filtered fresh air into the crankcase. The PCV valve uses the engine’s vacuum to pull air through the crankcase and reintroduce it back into the intake manifold system. This sends the uncombusted hydrocarbons and nitrous oxides that blew by the rings another chance to burn off. A PCV system also evacuates gases produced by the normal blow-by effects of combustion on the piston rings. These gases, if not eliminated, can contaminate the engine oil, leading to a reduction in its lubricating and cleaning properties.

How Does Positive Crankcase Ventilation Work?

An engine's PCV system consists of an outlet side and an inlet side. The engine vacuum draws air from one valve cover, while the breather on the opposite valve cover filters in fresh air. A factory setup typically includes a PCV hose on one valve cover and on the opposite cover, a grommet with another hose leading to the air filter housing.

Why is Positive Crankcase Ventilation Important?

Proper positive crankcase ventilation is essential for maintaining the overall health and performance of an engine. By effectively evacuating harmful gases, the PCV system helps prevent oil contamination and ensures that the engine oil retains its lubricating and cleaning properties.

Without a functioning PCV system, an engine is at risk of increased wear and reduced efficiency, ultimately leading to costly repairs and decreased longevity.

The breather component plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal engine performance and longevity. Without a properly functioning breather, your engine can suffer from a variety of issues, including reduced power, increased oil consumption, and even oil contamination. Ensuring that your rocker cover breather is clean and functioning effectively is essential for maximizing performance and prolonging the lifespan of your engine.

What is the purpose of a rocker cover breather?

The rocker cover breather, also known as a crankcase breather or valve cover breather, is a component designed to release excess pressure and prevent oil leakage within the engine. Its primary function is to allow fresh air to circulate in the engine and remove gases that can build up during the combustion process. By maintaining proper ventilation, the breather helps to preserve the integrity of critical internal engine components, such as valves and lifters.

A properly functioning rocker cover breather is essential for ensuring the efficient operation of your engine. Without adequate ventilation, pressure can build up inside the crankcase, leading to a range of issues such as oil leaks, reduced power output, and increased oil consumption. By allowing the engine to "breathe," the breather promotes optimal performance and helps to prevent damage caused by excessive pressure or contaminated oil.

The importance of a properly functioning rocker cover breather

Ensuring that your rocker cover breather is clean and functioning effectively is key to maximizing engine performance and longevity. Regular inspection and replacement of the breather can help prevent potential problems and ensure that your engine continues to breathe smoothly.  A breather that is clogged or malfunctioning can lead to a host of issues that may impact the overall operation of your engine. In addition to regulating pressure, the rocker cover breather also helps to prevent oil leaks by allowing gases to escape without forcing oil out of seals or gaskets. Maintaining this small yet essential component can pay off in the form of improved performance and reduced risk of costly repairs.

Upgrading your rocker cover breather for enhanced performance

While cleaning and maintaining your existing rocker cover breather is essential, you may also consider upgrading to one of our high-performance breathers for enhanced engine performance. Upgraded breathers are designed to provide improved ventilation and can help to optimize airflow within the engine, leading to better combustion and increased power output.

When choosing an upgraded breather, look for options that are designed specifically for your engine type and model. Our breathers offer features such as improved filtration, increased airflow capacity, and durability. Upgrading your breather can be a relatively simple and cost-effective way to boost engine performance and enhance overall driving experience.

Find a new breather for your rocker cover