Catch Tank

A catch tank is a safety container in motorsport that captures fluids like oil and coolant to prevent them from spilling onto the race track and creating dangerous conditions for drivers.

Think of a catch tank like a safety net for your car's fluids. During racing, engines work much harder than normal driving, which can cause various liquids to overflow or get pushed out of their normal systems. Without a catch tank, these fluids would end up on the track surface, making it extremely slippery and dangerous for all racers.

The most common type is an oil catch can, which connects to the engine's breathing system. As your engine runs, it naturally creates pressure and oil vapors that need to escape. Instead of letting these vapors go back into the engine or onto the ground, the catch tank traps them safely.

Radiator catch tanks work similarly but focus on coolant overflow. When engines get hot during intense racing, coolant can expand and overflow from the radiator. The catch tank prevents this hot coolant from hitting the track and creating a hazard.

Most catch tanks are made from strong materials like aluminum or stainless steel to handle high temperatures and corrosive fluids. They often include internal baffles that help separate oil from air, allowing the oil to settle at the bottom while letting clean air pass through.

Many racing organizations actually require catch tanks by rule. This isn't just about safety during the race – it's also about protecting the environment by preventing fluids from contaminating the track facility.

The tanks typically include features like sight tubes so you can see how much fluid has been collected, and drain plugs for easy cleaning between races. Some also have vents to manage pressure buildup safely.

Beyond safety, catch tanks can actually help your engine perform better by preventing oil vapors from re-entering the intake system, which keeps the engine running more efficiently throughout the race.