Push Rod Tube, Fits 40Hp VW, Sold Each

OVERVIEW

When it comes to maintaining the oil-tight integrity of your classic 40hp Volkswagen engine, the push rod tube is a critical component that often goes overlooked until a leak begins to puddle on your driveway. This EMPI replacement push rod tube is engineered to meet the exacting standards of the 1200cc power plant, providing a reliable conduit for the push rods while ensuring that oil returns efficiently to the crankcase. Constructed from high-quality steel and finished to resist the harsh thermal cycles of an air-cooled environment, these tubes are the backbone of a professional engine refresh. Whether you are performing a complete long-block overhaul or simply replacing a dented or rusted original, these tubes provide the factory-correct fitment that vintage VW enthusiasts demand for their 40hp builds.

Beyond its standard application, this specific push rod tube is a favorite among performance engine builders for its unique dimensions. Because the 40hp tubes are slightly shorter than the standard 1300cc through 1600cc versions, they serve as an ingenious solution for high-compression 1600cc engines that have undergone significant fly-cutting. When a cylinder head or case is machined down to decrease combustion chamber volume, the distance between the head and the case shrinks, often causing standard tubes to crush or fail to seal properly. Utilizing these 40hp tubes on a narrowed 1600cc engine allows for a perfect fit without the need for custom-machined parts. Sold individually, these tubes allow you to replace exactly what you need, though we always recommend a full set of eight for a balanced and leak-free restoration. Don''t settle for inferior, thin-walled alternatives when you can install the proven reliability of EMPI components from Appletree Automotive.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle: 1961-1965 (1200cc 40hp Engines)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1961-1965 (1200cc 40hp Engines)
• VW Bus / Type 2: 1961-1965 (1200cc 40hp Engines)
• Custom Engines: 1600cc based engines that have been fly-cut or narrowed for high compression
• Engine Code: Fits 1200cc engines with the "40hp" designation (Standard 113-109-335 configuration)

SPECS

• Part Number: 113-109-335
• Material: Heavy-duty stamped steel
• Application: 40hp / 1200cc Volkswagen Air-cooled engines
• Quantity: Sold Each (8 required per engine)
• Finish: Corrosion-resistant coating for long-term durability
• Compatibility: Designed for use with standard and silicone push rod tube seals
• Installation: Requires manual expansion for optimal seal tension
• Special Feature: Shorter length makes it ideal for "narrow" performance 1600cc builds

PRO TIPS

1. The Proper Expansion Technique

Before you even think about sliding these tubes into your engine, you must perform the "stretch" method. These tubes are designed to be expanded slightly by hand or with a specialized tool before installation. By pulling the bellows out slightly, you increase the overall length, which creates essential outward pressure against the seals once the cylinder heads are torqued down. This outward tension is exactly what prevents oil from seeping past the seals during the expansion and contraction of the engine''s heat cycles. If you skip this step, the tube may sit loosely between the head and the case, leading to immediate leaks as soon as the oil reaches operating temperature.

2. Mind the Seam Orientation

Every standard push rod tube features a visible welded seam running along its length. It is a golden rule in the VW world to always install these tubes with the welded seam facing UP (toward the top of the engine). Because oil pools in the bottom of the tube as it returns to the case, placing the seam at the bottom creates a potential failure point where oil can eventually find its way through any microscopic imperfections in the weld. By keeping the seam at the 12 o''clock position, you ensure that the path of least resistance for the oil is the smooth, solid bottom of the tube, significantly extending the life of your "dry" engine build.

3. Invest in High-Quality Silicone Seals

While standard black rubber seals were the factory norm for decades, modern air-cooled specialists almost exclusively recommend Genuine Silicone Push Rod Tube Seals. Silicone is much more resilient to the extreme heat generated by the cylinders and heads, and it won''t harden or crack as quickly as traditional rubber. When installing these 40hp tubes, ensure your seals are seated perfectly on the ends of the tube before sliding them into the engine case. A tiny drop of engine oil or assembly lube on the seal can help it slide into the case and head bores without binding or tearing, ensuring a perfect, airtight fit every time.