Foam Filter Covers 4.5 x 7 x 3

OVERVIEW

When you''re tearing up the dunes or navigating the dusty backroads of the Mojave, your engine''s worst enemy isn''t just heatit''s the fine silt and "big chunks" of debris that find their way into your intake. The EMPI Foam Filter Cover is a legendary piece of off-road insurance, race-proven for decades in the harshest environments known to the air-cooled world. Designed to fit over the standard rectangular air cleaner elements common on Weber Progressive and EMPI carburetors, this foam pre-filter acts as the first line of defense. By capturing larger particles before they ever reach your primary paper or gauze element, you significantly extend the life of your internal filter and ensure that your VW engine breathes nothing but clean, filtered air, even in a sandstorm.

What sets this EMPI foam cover apart is its incredible versatility and durability. Whether you are running a Baja Bug, a dedicated sand rail, or a street-bound Beetle that occasionally sees dirt paths, this cover is an essential upgrade. You have the flexibility to run it dry for light dust protection or "oil it down" with specialized foam filter oil for maximum filtration efficiency in silt-heavy environments. At Appletree Automotive, we know that performance is nothing without protection, and this 4.5 x 7 x 3.25-inch cover is the gold standard for enthusiasts who refuse to let a little dust ruin their weekend. It is a cost-effective way to safeguard your expensive carburetor and internal engine components from premature wear and tear.

FITMENT

This foam filter cover is designed for universal application on rectangular air cleaners typically measuring approximately 4.5 inches by 7 inches. It is most commonly used with the following applications:

• Volkswagen Beetle (Type 1): 1950-1979 (With Weber/EMPI Progressive Carburetor Kits)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956-1974 (With Progressive Carburetor Upgrades)
• Volkswagen Bus / Transporter (Type 2): 1950-1971 (Single Port or Dual Port with Progressive Carburetor)
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973-1974
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All years utilizing Weber 32/36 DGV, DFEV, or EMPI Progressive setups
• Baja Bugs: Specifically designed for high-debris off-road environments
• Carburetor Compatibility: Fits most air cleaners supplied with Weber 32/36 DGV, 32/36 DFEV, and EMPI 32/36 Progressive series carburetors

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 43-6233-0
• Material: High-density, open-cell polyurethane foam
• Length: 7 Inches (Approximate)
• Width: 4.5 Inches (Approximate)
• Height: 3.25 Inches (Approximate)
• Filtering Style: Pre-filter (Can be used dry or oiled)
• Quantity: 1 Piece per package
• Color: Grey/Dark Charcoal
• GTIN: 707924300109

PRO TIPS

1. The Secret to Oiling for Maximum Protection

If you are heading into heavy silt or fine desert sand, we highly recommend oiling your EMPI foam cover. Use a high-quality foam filter oilnot motor oil. Apply the oil evenly and then "squeeze" the foam to distribute it. NEVER wring or twist the foam, as this can tear the cell structure and create gaps where dirt can pass through. A properly oiled filter will "tack" the smallest dust particles to the outer surface, keeping your main filter spotless underneath. Always let the oil "tack up" for about 15-20 minutes before installing it on the car to prevent excess oil from being sucked into the carburetor throat.

2. The Two-Filter Rotation Strategy

Experienced off-roaders always keep a "clean swap" ready in their toolbox. Because these foam covers are washable and reusable, it''s a smart move to own two of them. When one gets caked in mud or dust during a long weekend at the track or in the dunes, you can pull it off, throw on your clean, pre-oiled spare, and keep riding. You can then wash the dirty one later with warm soapy water or a dedicated foam cleaner, let it air dry completely, and it''ll be ready for your next adventure. This ensures you never have to compromise your engine''s safety because you didn''t have time to clean a filter mid-trip.

3. Proper Fitment and Seal Inspection

When installing the cover, ensure that the bottom lip of the foam wraps securely around the base plate of your air cleaner assembly. If there is a gap between the foam and the metal base, air will take the path of least resistance and bypass the filter entirely. We recommend using a large zip-tie or a heavy-duty rubber band around the base if you are racing in high-vibration environments. Periodically check the foam for any signs of "dry rot" or hardening, especially if your VW sits in the sun or is exposed to fuel vapors frequently. If the foam starts to crumble when squeezed, it''s time to replace it immediately to prevent foam particles from entering the intake.