Lifter Set, 31mm Face, with Oiling Hole, 8 Pieces

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the heart of your air-cooled Volkswagen engine, the interface between the camshaft and the lifters is where performance and longevity are either won or lost. These EMPI 31mm face lifters are engineered specifically to handle the increased demands of performance camshafts and high-lift rockers that standard stock components simply weren''t designed to endure. By increasing the surface contact area by approximately 15% over standard stock lifters, these units significantly reduce the localized pressure and friction on the cam lobes. This expanded footprint helps prevent the dreaded scuffing and premature lobe wear that often plagues high-performance flat-tappet engines. Whether you are building a weekend cruiser or a high-revving sand rail, ensuring that your valvetrain has the largest possible contact patch is a critical step in protecting your investment and maintaining consistent valve timing over thousands of miles of operation.

Beyond the increased surface area, these lifters are manufactured from a high-quality one-piece billet design, ensuring structural integrity that far exceeds cheap, multi-piece cast alternatives. Each lifter is precision ground to exact tolerances to ensure smooth movement within the engine case bores and a perfect mating surface for the cam. What truly sets this set apart is the integrated oiling hole. This feature provides a constant stream of pressurized lubrication directly to the lifter face and cam lobe junction, which is especially vital during the critical break-in period and under high-heat operating conditions common in air-cooled environments. By prioritizing lubrication at the point of highest friction, EMPI has created a lifter set that doesn''t just survive but thrives in the harsh environment of a performance flat-four. Don''t settle for standard lifters when you can provide your camshaft with the cooling and lubrication it deserves.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle, Bug, and Karmann Ghia (1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc based engines).
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus, Transporter, Station Wagon (1950-1971 with Type 1 based upright engines).
• Volkswagen Type 3: Fastback, Squareback, and Notchback.
• Volkswagen Type 181: The Thing.
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, Trikes, and Kit Cars utilizing a VW Type 1 engine case.

SPECS

• Face Diameter: 31mm (Oversized for increased contact area).
• Material: One-piece billet steel construction.
• Lubrication: Features a precision-drilled center oiling hole.
• Surface Finish: Precision ground for optimal cam-to-lifter mating.
• Quantity: Complete set of 8 pieces.
• Compatibility: Designed for flat-tappet camshafts (Compatible with stock and performance grinds).
• Weight: Approximately 1.89 lbs for the full set.
• Manufacturer Part Number: 21-4302-0.

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Cam Break-In is Non-Negotiable

When installing these 31mm lifters, you must use a high-quality assembly lube specifically formulated for flat-tappet camshafts. Apply a generous amount to both the lifter face and the cam lobes. Upon initial startup, do not let the engine idle. Immediately bring the RPM up to between 2,000 and 2,500 and hold it there for 20 minutes. This ensures that the lifters begin to rotate properly and that the splash lubrication is sufficient to "mate" the lifter face to the cam lobe. Failure to follow this procedure can lead to immediate cam failure, regardless of the quality of the lifters.

2. Inspect Your Case Bores Thoroughly

Before sliding your new EMPI lifters into the case, take the time to inspect the lifter bores for any burrs, scoring, or "mushrooming" from previous failures. A lifter must be able to spin freely in its bore; if it sticks or has excessive resistance, it will not rotate as the camshaft turns, leading to a wiped-out lobe in short order. If you find any high spots, use a fine-grit hone or scotch-brite pad to lightly clean the bores. Always double-check that the lifter drops in and falls out under its own weight when the case is clean and dry.

3. Never Mix and Match Used Parts

It is a golden rule in the air-cooled VW world: never put new lifters on a used camshaft, and never put used lifters on a new camshaft. The lifter and the cam lobe develop a unique wear pattern (a microscopic crown and taper) that is specific to one another. Reusing old components with new ones will destroy the specialized surface of these EMPI lifters almost instantly. Always install this 8-piece set as a complete unit with a brand-new camshaft to ensure the geometry remains perfect and your valvetrain stays quiet and reliable for the life of the engine.