Flywheel Shim, 0.30 mm .0118, Sold Each

OVERVIEW

Precision is the cornerstone of any high-performance air-cooled engine build, and setting your crankshaft end play is arguably one of the most critical steps in the assembly process. This EMPI 0.30 mm (.0118 inch) Flywheel Shim is engineered to provide the exact spacing required to stabilize your crankshaft within the engine case. Without the proper shim stack, your crankshaft can "walk" forward and backward, leading to catastrophic failure of the main bearings, thrust surfaces, and even the engine case itself. Whether you are refreshing a stock 1600cc dual-port or assembling a high-revving stroker motor, these hardened steel shims ensure that your tolerances remain tight and your engine stays reliable for thousands of miles. Don''t leave your bottom end to chance; using high-quality, accurately measured shims is the only way to guarantee your build meets factory or performance specifications.

At Appletree Automotive, we understand that achieving the perfect end play often requires a variety of shim thicknesses to get the "stack" just right. This 0.30 mm shim is a standard size used in the traditional three-shim configuration found on Volkswagen Type 1, 2, and 3 engines. Manufactured from high-tensile, wear-resistant steel, these shims are designed to withstand the immense rotational friction and heat generated between the flywheel and the rear main bearing. By utilizing these precise EMPI components, you are preventing oil leaks at the rear main seal and ensuring that your clutch engagement remains consistent. These are sold individually, allowing you to customize your shim kit based on the specific requirements of your crankshaft and flywheel combination. It''s the small details like these that separate a professional-grade rebuild from a weekend project that ends in premature wear.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1966-1977 (1300cc, 1500cc, 1600cc)
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971-1979
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1966-1974
• Volkswagen Bus / Type 2: 1963-1971 (1200cc-1600cc)
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1964-1973
• Volkswagen Thing: 1973-1974
• Custom Applications: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes using VW 1300-1600cc based engines.

SPECS

• Thickness: 0.30 mm (0.0118 inches)
• Material: Hardened High-Tensile Steel
• Engine Compatibility: 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc Air-Cooled Engines
• Inner Diameter: Optimized for standard VW Crankshaft Hubs
• Outer Diameter: Matches Type 1/2/3 Rear Main Bearing Thrust Face
• Part Number Reference: 113-105-283A
• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Quantity: Sold Each

PRO TIPS

1. The Golden Rule of Three

Always remember that Volkswagen engineered the air-cooled engine to use exactly three shims between the flywheel and the crankshaft. Using fewer than three can cause the shims to gall or weld themselves to the crank or flywheel due to the lack of surface area for oil film. Conversely, using more than three shims can create an unstable stack that may shift under load. When calculating your end play, always mix and match three different (or identical) thicknesses to reach your target measurement, which is typically between .003 and .005 inches (.07 mm to .13 mm).

2. Accurate Measurement Techniques

To get an accurate end play reading, you must first install your flywheel with the three chosen shims and a new gland nut (torqued to a temporary spec, usually around 150-200 ft-lbs, though final torque is much higher). Use a dial indicator mounted to the engine case with the needle resting on the face of the flywheel. Push the flywheel in and pull it out firmly. If your measurement is too tight, swap one 0.30 mm shim for a 0.24 mm shim. If it''s too loose, move up to a thicker shim. Never guess; a measurement that is off by even .002 inches can lead to a "pounded out" engine case in short order.

3. Lubrication and Inspection

Before final assembly, inspect each shim for burrs or nicks. Even a tiny imperfection can throw off your total measurement or cause premature wear on the thrust bearing. When you are ready for the final install, apply a light coat of clean engine oil or assembly lube to each shim. This ensures that during the initial startup, there is adequate lubrication between the rotating surfaces before the engine''s oil pressure fully stabilizes. This prevents "dry-rub" which can heat up the shims and alter your precision-set clearances during the first few minutes of the engine''s life.