Rod Bearing, Standard Size, For Type 1 VW Kolbenschmidt

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the internal heart of your air-cooled engine, there is no room for compromise on quality. The Kolbenschmidt Standard Size Rod Bearing set for Type 1 Volkswagen engines represents the gold standard in engine restoration and performance building. Kolbenschmidt has long been recognized as an OEM supplier to Volkswagen, meaning these bearings are manufactured to the exacting tolerances and material specifications required to keep your flat-four running smoothly for decades. These are not merely replacement parts; they are precision-engineered components designed to handle the high-load demands of the connecting rod journals, ensuring that your crankshaft and rods maintain the perfect oil film clearance necessary to prevent catastrophic engine failure. Whether you are performing a stock rebuild on a 1600cc dual-port or assembling a weekend cruiser, starting with a foundation of KS bearings is the professional choice for longevity and reliability.

Selecting the right size is paramount to the success of your engine build. These bearings are specifically "Standard" size, meaning they are designed for use with a factory-specification crankshaft that has not been turned or ground undersize. At Appletree Automotive, we understand that the precision of your oil clearance determines the oil pressure and overall health of your motor. These Kolbenschmidt bearings feature a high-strength steel backing bonded to a specialized bearing alloy that provides excellent embeddability for tiny particles, protecting your crankshaft journals from premature wear. By choosing this complete set, you are ensuring that all four connecting rods are supported by the best materials available in the aftermarket today. Don''t risk your investment with inferior, no-name bearings when you can install the same quality that originally came from the factory in Wolfsburg.

FITMENT

This standard size rod bearing set is designed for the following air-cooled Volkswagen models equipped with Type 1 based engines (1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc):

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1950 through 1979 (Sedan and Convertible)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• Volkswagen Bus / Transporter: 1950 through 1971 (Up to 1600cc Type 1 style engines)
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1962 through 1973
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Sand Rails, Dune Buggies, and Trikes utilizing a Type 1 VW engine case and standard 55mm journal crankshaft.

SPECS

• Brand: Kolbenschmidt (KS) - Premium OEM Quality
• Bearing Size: Standard (STD) for original diameter journals
• Inside Diameter: 55.00mm (Standard Crankshaft Journal Size)
• Application: Type 1, 2, and 3 VW Air-cooled engines
• Quantity: Complete set of 8 halves (Fits 4 connecting rods)
• Material: Multi-layer steel-backed bearing alloy for maximum load capacity
• Manufacturing Standards: Meets or exceeds original Volkswagen 113-105-701 specifications
• Compatibility: Works with stock 69mm stroke crankshafts and most aftermarket counterweighted cranks using standard VW rod journals

PRO TIPS

1. Verify Your Crankshaft Dimensions: Before opening the vacuum-sealed packaging, always use a high-quality micrometer to measure your crankshaft''s rod journals. Even if the crank looks new or "Standard," it is vital to confirm that the journals measure exactly 55.00mm. If your crank has been turned .010, .020, or .030 inches undersize, these standard bearings will not provide the correct oil clearance and will lead to immediate engine failure. Measure twice to build once!

2. Surgical Cleanliness is Mandatory: When installing rod bearings, your workspace should be as clean as an operating room. Any speck of dust or lint trapped behind the bearing shell can create a "high spot," which reduces the oil clearance and causes the bearing to overheat or "spun." Clean the connecting rod bores and the back of the bearing shells with a lint-free cloth and brake cleaner, ensuring they are bone-dry and debris-free before snapping the shells into place. Never touch the bearing surface with dirty fingers.

3. Use Proper Assembly Lube, Not Just Engine Oil: During the initial startup, there is a brief moment before the oil pump creates full pressure. To protect your new Kolbenschmidt bearings during this critical window, use a dedicated high-pressure engine assembly lube on the bearing faces. Unlike standard motor oil, assembly lube clings to the surfaces and provides a protective barrier that won''t run off while the engine is sitting on the stand. This ensures that the first rotation of your newly rebuilt VW engine is as smooth and wear-free as possible.