Engine Mounting Bolt Kit, for All VW Aircooled Engines

OVERVIEW

When you''re pulling or installing an engine, the last thing you want to deal with is rounded-off, rusted, or fatigued hardware that threatens the security of your drivetrain. The EMPI Engine Mounting Bolt Kit is engineered specifically to provide a rock-solid connection between your air-cooled VW engine case and the transaxle bellhousing. Over decades of service, original factory hardware can stretch or become brittle due to heat cycles and environmental exposure, leading to potential alignment issues or even catastrophic failure under high-torque conditions. By choosing this high-quality replacement kit, you ensure that your powerplant remains perfectly seated, reducing unwanted vibration and protecting the integrity of your transmission input shaft and clutch assembly. It is a fundamental component for maintaining the structural harmony of your Volkswagen''s rear-mounted setup.

This kit is a must-have for any engine swap, rebuild, or routine maintenance that requires dropping the motor. EMPI has designed these bolts to meet or exceed OEM specifications, featuring the correct 10mm diameter and 70mm length required for the upper mounting points on Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 configurations. Whether you are restoring a vintage 1950s Beetle to concours standards or building a high-performance 2275cc monster for the sand dunes, having fresh, reliable hardware is the ''''cheap insurance'''' every VW enthusiast needs. Don''t risk your hard work and expensive components on fifty-year-old bolts when you can have the peace of mind that comes with brand-new, zinc-plated fasteners designed to withstand the rigors of the road and the elements. This kit simplifies the installation process, ensuring a smooth mate every time the engine goes back into the chassis.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle / Bug (Standard and Super) - All Years
• Volkswagen Type 1: Karmann Ghia - All Years
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus / Transporter / Kombi (1200, 1500, 1600cc) - 1950 through 1971
• Volkswagen Type 3: Squareback, Fastback, Notchback - All Years
• Volkswagen Type 181: Thing - All Years
• Custom Applications: All Air-cooled VW based Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-9551-0
• Bolt Diameter: 10mm (M10)
• Bolt Length: 70mm
• Thread Pitch: 1.5mm (Standard Metric Coarse)
• Material: High-tensile Grade Steel
• Finish: Corrosion-resistant Zinc Plating
• Kit Includes: 2 Long Bolts, 2 Nuts, and 2 Washers (Upper Mounting Set)
• Application: Upper Engine-to-Transmission Mounting

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Torque and Thread Preparation

When installing your engine, always use a calibrated torque wrench to tighten these mounting bolts to the factory specification of approximately 22 ft-lbs (30 Nm). Over-tightening can lead to stripped threads in the engine case or a cracked bellhousing, while under-tightening can cause the engine to shift, leading to clutch chatter and accelerated wear. I highly recommend applying a small amount of high-quality anti-seize lubricant to the threads before installation. This ensures that the next time you need to pull the engine for a clutch job or service, the bolts will break free smoothly without snapping or galling, especially in humid or coastal environments where corrosion is a constant threat.

2. Inspect the Bellhousing and Case Flanges

Before you slide the engine onto the transaxle studs, take a moment to inspect the mounting holes in both the transmission bellhousing and the engine case. Ensure the holes are clean and free of debris or old gasket material that might prevent the engine from seating flush. If the upper holes in the bellhousing appear ''''egged out'''' or enlarged from years of running loose bolts, you may need to address the transmission housing before final assembly. A flush, tight fit is critical for the starter motor to engage the flywheel correctly and for the main shaft to remain centered within the pilot bearing.

3. Manage the Lower Studs Simultaneously

Remember that this kit provides the hardware for the top two mounting points of your engine. While you have the engine out, it is the perfect time to inspect the two lower mounting studs that are pressed into the engine case. Often, these lower studs become bent or the threads become mangled from improper engine removal. Ensure your lower nuts and heavy-duty D-washers are in good condition to match your new EMPI upper bolt kit. Having a complete set of fresh hardware across all four mounting points ensures the engine is perfectly squared to the transaxle, which is vital for the longevity of your throw-out bearing and pressure plate.