Gtv-2 Cylinder Head, 94mm with Dual Springs 42 & 37.5 Valves

OVERVIEW

The EMPI GTV-2 Cylinder Head is the definitive choice for serious VW enthusiasts looking to extract maximum horsepower and torque from their large-displacement Type 1 engines. Engineered for performance and longevity, these heads are not just another stock replacement; they are a complete redesign built on a high-quality, special aluminum alloy permanent mold casting. This casting process ensures a much denser and stronger cylinder head that can withstand the extreme heat and pressures generated by high-performance air-cooled builds. Whether you are building a 1914cc weekend warrior or a 2332cc street-strip monster, the GTV-2 provides the structural integrity and airflow characteristics required to dominate the road. The intake and exhaust ports are already 20% larger than stock right out of the box, and the exhaust air passages are specially cleared during production to ensure your engine stays cool even under heavy load.

What sets the GTV-2 apart from the competition is the "beefed-up" architecture designed specifically for the custom engine builder. EMPI has added significant material in the combustion chamber area, allowing for deep fly cutting without compromising the head''s structural integrity, which is essential for fine-tuning compression ratios. Furthermore, the intake and exhaust ports feature extra material to allow for massive professional porting and polishing without the risk of breaking through into the cooling fins. This specific model comes pre-loaded with massive 42mm intake and 37.5mm exhaust stainless steel valves, supported by high-performance dual high-rev springs, chromoly retainers, and hardened keepers. This valvetrain combination ensures that your engine can rev higher and more reliably, preventing valve float and maximizing the efficiency of your high-lift camshaft.

FITMENT

These heads are designed for Type 1 based air-cooled engines utilizing a 94mm bore cylinder kit. Typical fitment includes:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1954 through 1977 (Performance builds)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• Volkswagen Bus / Transporter: 1954 through 1971 (Type 1 Engine configurations)
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1962 through 1973
• Volkswagen Thing: 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes utilizing Type 1 VW engine cases.

SPECS

• Bore Size: 94mm (Designed for 1914cc, 2110cc, 2276cc, 2332cc, etc.)
• Intake Valve Size: 42mm Stainless Steel
• Exhaust Valve Size: 37.5mm Stainless Steel
• Valve Springs: Dual High-Rev Performance Springs
• Retainers: Chromoly Steel
• Keepers: Hardened Steel
• Spark Plug Hole: 12mm with 3/4-inch reach (Long Reach)
• Material: High-Quality Special Aluminum Alloy Permanent Mold Casting
• Port Design: Dual Port, 20% larger than stock
• Valve Job: Competition-grade multi-angle valve grind

PRO TIPS

1. Verify Rocker Arm Geometry

When installing performance heads with dual springs and larger valves like the GTV-2, it is absolutely critical to verify your rocker arm geometry. The increased valve lift often associated with these heads can cause the rocker arm to scrub across the valve stem tip incorrectly if not shimmed properly. Always use an adjustable pushrod to find the correct length that allows the rocker arm tip to be centered on the valve stem at half-lift. This prevents premature guide wear and ensures you are getting the full lift intended by your camshaft profile. Don''t forget to check for coil bind with the dual springs to ensure the spring has at least .060'' of travel remaining at full lift.

2. Optimize Cooling and Spark Plug Choice

Because the GTV-2 heads use a 12mm 3/4-inch reach spark plug, you must ensure you are using the correct heat range for your specific compression ratio. A long-reach plug provides better thread engagement and moves the spark further into the chamber for a more efficient burn, but it also means there is more surface area to heat up. We recommend starting with a standard NGK D7EA or equivalent and reading your plugs after the initial break-in period. Additionally, while these heads have superior cooling passages, always ensure your engine tin is tight and your seals are intact; high-performance heads generate significant heat, and even the best casting needs consistent airflow to survive.

3. Port Matching for Maximum Gains

While the GTV-2 heads feature ports that are 20% larger than stock, you will truly unlock their potential by port-matching your intake manifolds. Use the intake gasket as a template to mark the manifold flanges and the head intake face. By smoothing the transition between the manifold and the head, you eliminate turbulence that can choke off airflow at high RPMs. Since these heads have extra material cast in specifically for porting, you can safely blend the bowls and smooth the short-turn radius to compliment the 42mm intake valves. This small amount of prep work can often result in a noticeable increase in throttle response and top-end power.