34 Pict-3 Carburetor, with Electric Choke

OVERVIEW

When it comes to restoring the heart of your vintage Volkswagen, nothing impacts drivability and reliability quite like a fresh, high-quality carburetor. The EMPI 34 PICT-3 Carburetor with Electric Choke is the definitive choice for enthusiasts seeking to reclaim that smooth idle and crisp throttle response that the 1600cc dual-port engine was famous for. Designed as a direct replacement for the original Solex units found on late-model Beetles and Super Beetles, this carburetor addresses the common issues of worn throttle shafts, clogged internal galleries, and inconsistent fueling that plague decades-old original equipment. By installing a brand-new EMPI unit, you aren''t just replacing a part; you are upgrading your engine''s breathing capabilities with modern manufacturing tolerances, ensuring a more consistent air-fuel mixture across the entire RPM range.

The 34 PICT-3 is widely regarded by air-cooled specialists as the pinnacle of factory-style single-carburetor design. It features a sophisticated idle circuit that helps eliminate the notorious ''''flat spot'''' often found during acceleration in earlier models. This specific version comes equipped with a 12-volt electric choke, providing effortless cold starts and a controlled warm-up cycle that is essential for maintaining engine longevity. Whether you are finishing a concourse-level restoration or simply need your daily driver to start reliably on chilly mornings, this carburetor offers the perfect balance of vintage aesthetics and modern performance. Please remember that while these are factory-tested, every air-cooled engine is a unique beast; fine-tuning the idle speed, volume control, and choke timing is a necessary step to synchronize this unit with your specific displacement and ignition timing setup.

FITMENT

This carburetor is designed primarily for 1600cc Dual Port engines. It is a direct fit for the following vehicles using a 12-volt electrical system:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973, 1974
• Custom Applications: Can be used on earlier 1600cc upright engines converted to 12V and dual-port manifolds.

SPECS

• Model Type: 34 PICT-3 (Solex Style)
• Choke Type: 12V Electric Heating Element
• Venturi Size: 26mm
• Main Jet: 127.5 (Standard EMPI Configuration)
• Idle Jet: 55
• Air Correction Jet: 60z
• Material: High-grade die-cast zinc/aluminum alloy
• Mounting: Standard 2-bolt base pattern for 1600cc intake manifolds
• Included Hardware: Base gasket and mounting studs
• Finish: Natural cast finish for an authentic period-correct look

PRO TIPS

1. Mastering the Electric Choke Adjustment

Don''t assume the choke is perfectly set out of the box for your specific climate. To adjust it, loosen the three small screws holding the ceramic heating element. With the engine cold, rotate the element until the choke butterfly valve just barely closes completely. If you live in a very cold climate, you may want a slightly tighter tension; in warmer climates, a looser setting ensures the choke opens faster. Always ensure your 12V lead to the choke is only hot when the ignition is on, otherwise, you will burn out the element or drain your battery.

2. Eliminate Vacuum Leaks Before Tuning

The number one reason customers think a new carburetor is defective is actually an undiagnosed vacuum leak elsewhere in the system. Before you begin turning the adjustment screws, inspect your intake manifold boots and the gaskets at the cylinder heads. A tiny leak will cause a lean condition that no amount of carburetor tuning can fix. Use a bit of carburetor cleaner spray around the base and intake boots while the engine is idling; if the RPMs change, you''ve found a leak that must be sealed before the 34 PICT-3 can do its job properly.

3. The Two-Screw Idle Method

The 34 PICT-3 uses a unique bypass circuit. Unlike earlier carbs, the screw on the throttle arm (the fast idle cam screw) should NOT be used to set your final idle speed. That screw should only be turned in until it touches the cam and then maybe a quarter-turn more to prevent the butterfly from wearing into the throat. Your actual idle speed is controlled by the large Bypass Screw on the side of the carb, while the smaller Volume Control Screw handles the mixture. Start with both screws out 2.5 turns and adjust the small screw for the highest RPM, then use the large screw to bring the idle down to the 850-900 RPM range.