Alternator & Generator Pulley Shims, 10 Pack

OVERVIEW

In the world of air-cooled Volkswagens, belt tension is not just a matter of keeping your battery charged; it is the difference between a cool-running engine and a catastrophic overheat. Because the fan is directly tied to the alternator or generator, your pulley setup is the heart of your cooling system. These EMPI Alternator and Generator Pulley Shims are the precision-engineered solution for fine-tuning that critical tension. Whether you are running a classic 1200cc 40hp or a high-performance 2110cc stroker, having a full 10-pack of these shims in your glovebox or tool chest is an absolute necessity. They provide the mechanical adjustment needed to account for belt stretch over time and variations in new belt manufacturing, ensuring your V-belt rides exactly where it should in the pulley groove.

Precision is paramount when dealing with the "sandwich" style pulley system found on Type 1, 2, and 3 engines. These shims work by adjusting the width between the two pulley halves; adding shims between the halves spreads them apart, allowing the belt to ride deeper and loosening the tension, while removing them brings the halves closer together to tighten the grip. This 10-pack of shims from EMPI (Part # 00-9197-0) ensures you have more than enough to achieve the perfect 1/2-inch deflection. Remember, a belt that is too tight will eat your alternator bearings, and a belt that is too loose will cause your engine to overheat and your lights to dim. Don''t settle for a "close enough" fitment when you can have the exact shim count required for optimal cooling and charging performance.

FITMENT

These pulley shims are designed for a universal fit across the standard air-cooled Volkswagen engine range. They are compatible with both 6-volt and 12-volt systems utilizing the standard V-belt pulley configuration.

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1950 through 1979 (All Type 1 Sedan and Convertible models).
• Volkswagen Bus / Transporter: 1950 through 1971 (All Type 2 models with Type 1 style upright engines).
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1955 through 1974.
• Volkswagen Thing: 1973 through 1974 (Type 181).
• Volkswagen Type 3: 1961 through 1973 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback).
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All models utilizing a VW Type 1 upright engine configuration.
• Custom Applications: Fits most aftermarket chrome and aluminum pulleys designed to OEM specifications.

SPECS

Every shim in this 10-pack is manufactured to meet or exceed original equipment standards to ensure durability under high-RPM conditions.

• Quantity: 10 Individual Shims per pack.
• Material: High-tensile stamped steel for maximum crush resistance.
• Finish: Natural steel/zinc plated for corrosion resistance and easy identification.
• Application: Fits both Alternator and Generator pulleys.
• Inner Diameter: Optimized for standard VW woodruff key shafts.
• Manufacturer: EMPI.
• Part Number: 00-9197-0.
• Compatibility: Works with 9.5mm and 11.3mm width V-belts.

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: The "Never Discard" Rule for Unused Shims

One of the most common mistakes beginners make is throwing away the shims that aren''t needed between the pulley halves. You must ALWAYS keep all 10 shims on the assembly. Any shims not used to space the pulley halves apart should be placed on the outside of the outer pulley half, right under the large 21mm nut. This ensures that the nut has the correct stack-up height to tighten securely against the shoulder of the shaft. If you leave shims out entirely, you risk bottoming out the nut before the pulley is actually tight, which will shear your woodruff key and destroy your pulley and alternator shaft in seconds.

Tip 2: Checking for the Perfect Deflection

To check if you have the correct amount of shims installed, use your thumb to press down on the belt midway between the top and bottom pulleys. You are looking for approximately 1/2 inch (13mm) of deflection under moderate pressure. If the belt moves more than that, it is too looseremove a shim from the middle and move it to the outside. If it moves less, it is too tighttake a shim from the outside and move it into the middle. Always rotate the engine by hand a full 360 degrees after adjusting to let the belt settle into its new seat before doing your final tension check.

Tip 3: Inspect for Burrs and Sharp Edges

Before installing these new shims, take a quick moment to inspect your pulley halves for any nicks, rust, or sharp edges. If your pulley halves are pitted, they will act like sandpaper on your belt, causing it to snap prematurely regardless of how many shims you use. When installing the shims, ensure they are clean and free of grease. A dry, clean shim stack prevents slippage and ensures that the clamping force of the pulley nut is evenly distributed across the face of the shims, preventing them from warping or "dishing" over time under the heat of the engine bay.