Rocker Arm Flat Washer, Stock Type 1, Each

OVERVIEW

When you are deep into the assembly of a high-performance or stock air-cooled engine, it is the smallest components that often dictate the longevity and quiet operation of your valvetrain. The Latest Rage Rocker Arm Flat Washer is a precision-engineered reproduction of the original Volkswagen part number 113-109-435. Designed specifically for the Type 1 rocker shaft assembly, this hardened flat washer acts as the critical interface between the rocker arm and the mounting blocks or wavy washers. In the high-heat, high-friction environment of a VW cylinder head, these washers bear the lateral loads generated as the rocker arms pivot thousands of times per minute. Without a perfectly flat, smooth surface, you risk uneven wear on the rocker arm face and the shaft itself, which eventually leads to excessive valvetrain noise and potential mechanical failure.

At Appletree Automotive, we know that a "rattly" engine is often the result of neglected hardware during a rebuild. Over decades of service, original rocker arm washers can become cupped, scored, or thinned out, throwing off your side-play tolerances. This replacement washer is manufactured to exacting tolerances to ensure that your rocker arms remain centered over the valve stems. Proper alignment is paramount for ensuring that the valve guides do not experience premature side-loading, which is a common cause of oil consumption and loss of compression. Whether you are restoring a vintage 1100cc Split Window Beetle or building a stout 2276cc stroker motor for your street-legal sand rail, using fresh, high-quality rocker hardware is a non-negotiable step for any professional-grade engine build.

FITMENT

This rocker arm flat washer is designed for use on all stock-style Type 1 rocker shaft assemblies. It is compatible with the following vehicles and engine configurations:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1954 through 1979 (Including Super Beetle)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• Volkswagen Bus / Transporter: 1954 through 1971 (Type 2 with Type 1 based engines)
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974
• Volkswagen Squareback, Fastback, Notchback: 1962 through 1973 (Type 3)
• Engine Displacements: 1100cc, 1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc based upright engines.

SPECS

The following technical specifications ensure this part meets or exceeds the original equipment requirements for your air-cooled VW:

• OEM Reference Part Number: 113-109-435 (113109435)
• Material: High-carbon hardened steel for maximum wear resistance.
• Finish: Precision ground flat surfaces to minimize friction.
• Application: Rocker arm shaft assembly (between rocker and support block).
• Thickness: Standard stock dimensions for consistent side-play setup.
• Inside Diameter: Sized specifically for standard 20mm Type 1 rocker shafts.
• Quantity: Sold individually (Each). Note: A full engine typically requires 8 flat washers for a complete stock shaft refresh.

PRO TIPS

1. The Fingernail Test for Wear

When you are disassembling your top end, don''t just wipe the old washers and throw them back in. Take your fingernail and run it across the surface of the washer where the rocker arm makes contact. If you can feel a distinct ridge, groove, or "lip," the washer is "spent." Using a scored washer will act like sandpaper against your rocker arm, quickly eating into the metal and creating metal shavings that circulate through your oil. If there is any doubt about the surface integrity, always replace them with new Latest Rage hardware to ensure a smooth, low-friction pivot point.

2. Measuring Your Side-Play

For a quiet and long-lasting valvetrain, you must check the side-play of the rocker arms once the assembly is bolted together on the bench. Use a feeler gauge between the rocker arm and the flat washer. Ideally, you want to see between .002'' and .006'' of clearance. If the play is too tight, the rocker can bind as the engine reaches operating temperature and the metals expand. If it is too loose, you will experience a "ticking" sound that no amount of valve adjustment can fix. These stock-style flat washers are the foundation for getting that measurement perfect.

3. Proper Lubrication During Assembly

Never install these washers dry. During the initial startup of a fresh engine, the oil pump takes a few moments to send oil up the pushrods to the rocker assembly. To prevent "dry-start" galling, apply a liberal coating of high-quality assembly lube or a zinc-rich break-in oil to both sides of the washer. This ensures that from the very first rotation of the camshaft, the rocker arm is gliding on a film of protection rather than grinding against the washer. This simple step can add years to the life of your valvetrain components.