Western Filters vs Direction Plus Catch Can Kits
Diesel Catch Can Comparison
When it comes to protecting modern diesel engines, installing a quality catch can kit is one of the most effective preventative upgrades you can make. Two of the most popular and proven options available in Australia are the Western Filters Catch Can Kit and the Direction Plus Catch Can Kit.
Both kits are well-engineered, reliable, and designed to perform the same core function: separating oil vapour from crankcase gases before they enter the intake system.
Importantly, the difference between these two kits is not oil separation performance. Both do this job extremely well. This comparison is designed to help you choose the kit that best suits your vehicle, installation preference, and budget, rather than declaring one product “better” than the other.
Why Diesel Engines Need Catch Cans
Diesel engines naturally produce blow-by gases that contain oil vapour. Over time, this oil vapour can accumulate in the intake system, contributing to carbon build-up and reduced efficiency.
Installing a diesel catch can helps to:
- Reduce oil contamination in the intake system
- Support long-term engine reliability
- Maintain turbocharger and intercooler efficiency
For many diesel owners, a catch can is considered a smart preventative maintenance upgrade, particularly on modern common-rail engines.
Side-by-Side Catch Can Comparison
*Generic kits compared not vehicle specific.
| Feature | Western Filters Catch Can Kit | Direction Plus Catch Can Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Catch Can Design | ✔ ProVent-style oil separator | ✔ ProVent Ultimate oil separator |
| Oil Separation | ✔ High efficiency oil separation | ✔ High efficiency oil separation |
| Primary Strength | ✔ Installation flexibility | ✔ Installation convenience |
| Installation Style | ✔ Custom / adaptable mounting | ✔ Bolt-on, vehicle-specific style |
| Mounting Bracket | ✖ Not included as standard Optional bracket available from Cost Effective Maintenance | ✔ Purpose-built bracket included |
| Hose Clamps | ✔ Stainless steel clamps | ✔ Standard spring band clamps |
| Drain Hose Type | ✔ Clear hose for visual oil checks Quick checks at a glance during routine maintenance | ✖ Standard non-clear hose Requires periodic manual inspection |
| Maintenance Monitoring | ✔ Visual inspection at a glance | ✔ Periodic manual inspection |
| Overall Finish | ✔ Functional, practical, DIY-friendly | ✔ Clean, OEM-style appearance |
| Best Suited For | ✔ DIY installs, custom layouts, value-focused buyers | ✔ Quick installs, factory-look preference |
| Approx. Price (AUD) | ~$340 | ~$430 |
Summary: Both kits deliver excellent oil separation
Western Filters Generic Catch Can Kit
The Western Filters catch can kit is a popular choice for owners who value flexibility, durability, and hands-on installation.
- Uses stainless steel hose clamps, offering strong corrosion resistance
- Includes a clear drain hose, making it easy to visually check oil accumulation during routine maintenance
- Provides high oil separation efficiency
- DIY installation
- More cost-effective upfront
A mounting bracket is not included as standard, however a suitable bracket can be supplied separately by Cost Effective Maintenance if required.
Direction Plus Generic Catch Can Kit
The Direction Plus catch can kit is designed for convenience and a clean, factory-style installation.
- Supplied with a purpose-built mounting bracket
- Designed for a bolt-on installation, reducing fitting time
- Offers the same high oil separation performance as the Western Filters kit
- Uses standard spring band clamps and a non-clear drain hose, which are reliable and functional
- Provides a neat, OEM-style finish in the engine bay
Which Catch Can Should You Choose?
Both kits are excellent choices and perform the same essential function effectively.
- Choose Western Filters if you prefer installation flexibility, stainless hardware, and visual drain monitoring
- Choose Direction Plus if you want a ready-to-install kit with a clean, factory-style appearance
Either option will help protect your diesel engine and support long-term reliability.
