Air Cleaner, for 32/36 Progressive DFV, 2-1/2 Tall

OVERVIEW

Elevate your engine''s performance and aesthetic appeal with the EMPI 1605-11 Air Cleaner, specifically engineered for the iconic Weber 32/36 Progressive DFV series carburetors. In the world of air-cooled Volkswagens, clean air is the lifeblood of your flat-four engine. This 2-1/2 inch tall rectangular filter assembly doesn''t just sit on top of your carb; it acts as a high-flow gateway that protects your internal components from the abrasive dust and debris often encountered on the open road or the dusty trails of a weekend excursion. By providing a larger surface area than many stock or low-profile alternatives, this EMPI unit ensures that your Progressive carb can draw in the volume of air required to maintain an optimal air-fuel ratio, preventing the "strangled" sensation that often plagues restricted intake systems. Whether you are running a daily driver Beetle or a high-revving sand rail, this air cleaner provides the essential balance of filtration efficiency and unrestricted airflow.

Crafted with the "show and go" philosophy that Appletree Automotive customers demand, this assembly features a brilliant chrome-plated finish that instantly brightens up any engine bay. The rectangular design is a classic staple for the Weber Progressive setup, offering a professional and tidy appearance that fits snugly under the decklid of most classic VWs. One of the standout features of this specific model is the user-friendly spring-clip design. We know that tuning and maintenance are part of the air-cooled lifestyle, and these clips allow you to pop the top off and inspect your carburetor or swap out the filter element in seconds without fumbling for specialized tools. It is a robust, high-quality solution that combines the durability needed for the long haul with the refined style that makes your engine stand out at the local car show. When you choose this EMPI air cleaner, you are investing in a component that respects the legacy of your vintage Volkswagen while providing modern reliability.

FITMENT

This air cleaner is designed specifically for Weber Progressive Carburetors including the DFV, DFAV, and DFEV series. It is a popular upgrade for the following air-cooled applications equipped with these specific carburetors:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1950 through 1977 (Standard and Super Beetle models).
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974.
• Volkswagen Bus / Type 2: 1950 through 1971 (With Type 1 upright engine conversions).
• Volkswagen Thing / Type 181: 1973 through 1974.
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes utilizing a Weber 32/36 Progressive DFV-style carburetor.
• Note: Always verify clearance between the top of the air cleaner and your vehicle''s decklid or hood, as the 2-1/2 inch height may require careful positioning in cramped engine compartments.

SPECS

Detailed technical specifications for the EMPI 1605-11 Air Cleaner assembly:

• Height: 2-1/2 Inches (63.5mm) - providing ample filtration volume.
• Length (Long Dimension): 6-3/4 Inches (171.5mm).
• Width (Short Dimension): 4-1/2 Inches (114.3mm).
• Filter Shape: Rectangular with rounded corners.
• Compatibility: Fits Weber DFV, DFAV, and DFEV Progressive Carburetors.
• Material: Heavy-duty steel base and top plate.
• Finish: High-luster Chrome Plating for superior corrosion resistance and aesthetics.
• Filter Element: Replaceable high-flow pleated paper element included.
• Hardware: Includes necessary spring clips for tool-free assembly and a base gasket for a leak-free seal.
• Weight: Approximately 0.84 lbs.

PRO TIPS

1. Ensure a Perfect Seal at the Carburetor Base

When installing your new air cleaner, the most critical step is ensuring a vacuum-tight seal between the base of the cleaner and the top flange of your Weber carb. Always use the included gasket and check that the mounting surface is clean and free of old gasket material or oily residue. Even a tiny gap here can allow "unmetered" and unfiltered air to enter your engine, which can lead to lean-running conditions and premature wear on your cylinders. If you find the base is rocking slightly, double-check that your carburetor''s choke linkage isn''t interfering with the air cleaner base plate; sometimes a minor adjustment to the linkage or a slight clocking of the base is needed for a flush fit.

2. Management of Crankcase Ventilation

Many air-cooled VW owners forget that the stock air cleaner often handled the crankcase breather hose. When switching to this EMPI 32/36 Progressive air cleaner, you may need to address your breather system. We recommend either installing a small breather filter directly on your oil filler stand or drilling the base plate of this air cleaner to install a vacuum fitting. If you choose to vent into the air cleaner, ensure the fitting is placed on the "clean" side of the filter (inside the element) so that your engine isn''t sucking in road dust along with those oil vapors. Proper venting prevents pressure build-up that can cause pesky oil leaks at the pushrod tubes or main seals.

3. Periodic Maintenance and Element Care

Because the Weber Progressive carb is often used on vehicles that see significant street time, the filter element can clog faster than you might think. We suggest inspecting the pleated paper element every 3,000 miles or after any particularly dusty cruise. To check it, simply pop the chrome clips, remove the element, and hold it up to a bright light. If you can''t see light through the pleats, it''s time for a replacement. Do not attempt to "blow out" paper filters with high-pressure compressed air, as this can create microscopic tears in the paper that allow dirt to pass through. For the best performance and engine longevity, keep a spare EMPI replacement element in your toolkit so you''re never caught with a restricted intake.