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The Unsung Hero of Engine Performance: Air Oil Separators for EcoBoost and Coyote Engines
Posted by Chris Groote on 1/23/2025 to
In-Depth Review
When it comes to protecting your Ford engine and ensuring peak performance, the Air Oil Separator (AOS) often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. For turbocharged EcoBoost engines, an Air Oil Separator is almost a necessity. While naturally aspirated 5.0 and 5.2 Coyote motors may also see some benefits, the advantages are particularly pronounced for forced induction setups. Let’s explore why these small but mighty devices matter, focusing primarily on EcoBoost engines.
The Problem: Blow-By and Oil Vapor
All internal combustion engines experience "blow-by," where combustion gases escape past the piston rings into the crankcase, carrying oil vapor along. These vapors are rerouted back into the intake system through the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system and have worked incredibly well since the first units became standard for American engines in the early 1960s. The challenge is, over time and with wear, those vapors can become a bigger issue than the PCV can handle. Naturally aspirated engines like the Ford Coyote fare a bit better than turbo’d units, but for EcoBoost engines, the high pressures inherent in turbocharging exacerbate the problem. Oil vapors can accumulate on the turbocharger components, intercoolers, and intake manifold, leading to reduced performance and long-term damage. While Coyote engines don’t experience the same high-pressure conditions, they can still suffer from carbon buildup on intake valves, particularly in direct-injection systems.
How an Air Oil Separator Solves the Problem
An Air Oil Separator intercepts crankcase gases, separates out the oil vapor, and returns clean air to the intake. Captured oil is either returned to the oil pan or collected in a canister for disposal. For EcoBoost engines, this process prevents oily residue from fouling the turbochargers, ensuring they remain efficient and responsive. In high-performance Coyote builds, where engines operate under greater stress, an Air Oil Separator helps keep the intake system clean and efficient, though its necessity is more situational compared to turbocharged setups.
Why an Air Oil Separator Is Essential for EcoBoost Engines
EcoBoost engines are engineered for power and efficiency, but their turbocharging and direct-injection design make them particularly susceptible to oil vapor issues. The AOS addresses these problems in several key ways:
Protecting Turbochargers:
Turbochargers rely on precision and balance. Even minor oil residue can cause buildup on turbine blades, reducing performance and potentially leading to costly repairs. An Air Oil Separator keeps these components clean and functioning optimally.
Preventing Carbon Buildup:
Oil deposits in the intake system can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. By capturing oil vapor, an AOS minimizes carbon buildup and supports consistent power delivery.
Maintaining Performance:
A clean intake system ensures optimal airflow and combustion efficiency. For EcoBoost engines, this translates to better throttle response and consistent performance.
In addition to these performance benefits, an Air Oil Separator can reduce maintenance costs by keeping components like the intercooler and intake manifold cleaner for longer periods, extending their service life.
The Role of an Air Oil Separator in Performance-Built Coyote Engines
For naturally aspirated Coyote engines, the need for an AOS is less pronounced under normal driving conditions. However, in high-performance or high stress scenarios, such as racing or towing where engines are pushed to their limits, the benefits become more apparent. Preventing oil vapor from coating intake valves helps preserve airflow and maintain peak efficiency. Additionally, keeping oil out of the combustion chamber ensures consistent air-fuel mixtures—critical for precision tuning. In track or aggressive driving conditions, an Air Oil Separator mitigates the increased blow-by that comes with higher pressures and temperatures, ensuring the engine runs cleanly and efficiently.
Additional Benefits of an Air Oil Separator
Whether installed in an EcoBoost engine or a high-performance Coyote build, an Air Oil Separator provides long-term benefits:
Extended Engine Life:
By preventing oil contamination in critical areas, the separator reduces wear and tear on components, contributing to the engine’s longevity.
Environmental Impact:
Cleaner combustion leads to fewer emissions, making your vehicle more eco-friendly.
Improved Efficiency:
With cleaner components and better airflow, your engine operates more efficiently, delivering consistent power and responsiveness.
Choosing the Right Air Oil Separator
At Stage 3 Motorsports, we offer a variety of Air Oil Separator solutions designed for both EcoBoost and Coyote engines. Two standout options include:
Ford Performance Air Oil Separator Kits
:
These kits are engineered for specific applications, offering reliable and effective solutions for maintaining engine cleanliness and performance. Options are available for EcoBoost engines, such as the 3.5L, 2.7L, and the 2.3L, as well as for high-performance Coyote builds.
UPR Plug-N-Play Oil Catch Cans
:
These systems feature advanced multi-stage filtration and high-quality components, ensuring long-term reliability and efficiency. Designed for easy installation, they provide a robust solution for preventing oil vapor contamination.
When selecting an Air Oil Separator, it’s important to choose a product designed specifically for your engine. Universal systems may not offer the same level of performance or fitment as those engineered for your vehicle.
To ensure your Air Oil Separator continues to perform optimally, regular maintenance is essential. Periodically emptying the collected oil and inspecting the system for any blockages will keep it functioning effectively. Most units are designed for easy maintenance, requiring minimal time and effort.
Why You Should Invest in an Air Oil Separator
If you’re serious about protecting your engine, an Air Oil Separator is one of the smartest upgrades you can make. For EcoBoost engines, it’s essential for safeguarding turbochargers and maintaining performance. For hard working Coyote engines, it’s a valuable addition to ensure reliability under high-stress conditions. By preventing harmful oil vapors from contaminating critical components, an Air Oil Separator supports the health, performance, and longevity of your engine.
At
Stage 3 Motorsports
, we’re here for all your performance upgrades, and you can find the right Air Oil Separator for your engine, no matter how you’re using it. Browse our selection, and take the first step toward a cleaner, more efficient engine today!
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