30 Pict-1 Carburetor, with Electric Choke

OVERVIEW

The EMPI 30 Pict-1 Carburetor with Electric Choke is the definitive choice for enthusiasts seeking to restore the iconic ''round bowl'' aesthetics to their air-cooled engine while benefiting from modern manufacturing tolerances. Originally standard on mid-1960s Volkswagens, the 30 Pict-1 is celebrated for its simplicity and reliable fuel delivery in single-port applications. This EMPI unit replicates the legendary Solex design with precision, ensuring that your engine bay maintains a period-correct appearance without the headaches associated with fifty-year-old pitted castings and worn throttle shafts. Whether you are performing a concours-level restoration or simply reviving a daily driver, this carburetor provides the smooth idle and consistent throttle response that defined the golden age of the VW Beetle and Karmann Ghia. It is the go-to solution for those who demand vintage style without sacrificing the dependability required for modern road conditions.

One of the standout features of this specific model is the integrated 12V electric choke, which offers a significant upgrade in cold-start reliability compared to older manual or thermal systems. While it maintains the classic profile, the internal circuitry and jetting are optimized for today''s fuel blends, helping to mitigate the issues often caused by ethanol-enriched gasoline. It is important to remember that every air-cooled engine is a unique ecosystem; while this carb is factory-jetted for standard 1300cc to 1500cc configurations, fine-tuning the idle circuit and volume control screws is a standard and necessary part of the installation process. By choosing this SCORE-approved component, you are investing in a carburetor that has been tested for durability and performance, ensuring your flat-four breathes deeply and runs cool for miles to come. Don''t settle for a rebuild kit on a warped body when you can bolt on a brand-new unit designed to perform right out of the box.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1966-1967 (Standard for 1300cc and 1500cc models)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1966-1967
• Volkswagen Bus / Transporter: 1963-1967 (Single-port engines)
• Volkswagen Type 3: Custom single-carburetor conversions
• Custom Applications: Ideal for 1200cc-1600cc single-port upright engines converted to 12-volt systems

SPECS

• Model Type: Solex Style 30 Pict-1
• Bowl Design: Traditional Round Bowl (Restoration correct)
• Choke Type: 12-Volt Electric Choke
• Venturi Size: 30mm
• Fuel Inlet Size: Standard 5mm / 1/4 inch
• Material: High-quality Zinc/Aluminum Alloy Casting
• Approval: SCORE International Off-Road Approved
• Voltage Compatibility: 12-Volt Systems (Requires 12V for choke operation)
• Mounting Flange: Standard Dual-Stud Single Port
• Finish: Natural Burnished Metal

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Proper Choke Calibration and Wiring

When installing this 30 Pict-1, ensure your electric choke is wired to a switched 12V power source that is only live when the ignition is on. If you are converting a 6-volt car to 12-volt, this is a mandatory upgrade. To adjust the choke, loosen the three retaining screws on the ceramic element and rotate the housing until the butterfly valve just barely closes when the engine is stone cold. Do not overtighten the spring tension, as this will cause the engine to run overly rich for too long, potentially fouling your spark plugs and increasing fuel consumption during the warm-up phase.

Tip 2: Managing Fuel Pressure for Needle and Seat Longevity

Modern aftermarket fuel pumps often output pressure exceeding 4.5 PSI, which can overwhelm the needle and seat in a 30 Pict-1, leading to flooding and inconsistent idling. For the best results, use a high-quality fuel pressure regulator set between 2.5 and 3.0 PSI. This ensures a steady fuel level in the round bowl, preventing the "stumbling" effect during hard cornering or sudden braking. Always install a fresh fuel filter between the pump and the carburetor to prevent tiny particles from clogging the idle jet, which is the most common cause of poor performance in new carburetors.

Tip 3: The Importance of Vacuum Advance Matching

The 30 Pict-1 is designed to work harmoniously with a vacuum-advance distributor (like the original Bosch units). If you are running a centrifugal-only distributor, such as the Bosch 009, you may experience a "flat spot" or hesitation during acceleration. To cure this, you must ensure your idle mixture is slightly richer and that your timing is set correctly to compensate for the lack of a vacuum signal. For the smoothest driving experience, we recommend pairing this carburetor with a vacuum-advance distributor to utilize the vacuum port located on the side of the carb body, which provides the necessary signal for optimal spark timing under load.