Fuel Filler Neck Hose, for Beetle 68-79 Ghia 68-74

OVERVIEW

When it comes to maintaining the fuel system integrity of your classic air-cooled Volkswagen, the fuel filler neck hose is a component that simply cannot be overlooked. Starting in 1968, VW moved the fuel filler door to the exterior of the vehicle for safety and convenience, necessitating a flexible rubber connection between the body-mounted filler neck and the gas tank itself. Over decades of service, the original rubber components are subjected to constant vibration, heat cycles, and the corrosive nature of modern fuel blends. A cracked or dry-rotted filler hose isn''t just a nuisance that causes a lingering smell of gasoline in your garage; it is a significant safety hazard that can lead to fuel leaks during fill-ups or while cornering with a full tank. This EMPI replacement hose is engineered to restore that factory-tight seal, ensuring that every drop of fuel makes it into the tank where it belongs.

This premium fuel filler neck hose is manufactured from high-grade, fuel-resistant rubber compounds specifically designed to withstand the harsh chemical additives found in today''s ethanol-blended gasoline. Many generic hoses will swell or degrade when exposed to modern pump gas, but this unit is built to maintain its structural integrity and flexibility over the long haul. Whether you are performing a full body-off restoration or just conducting routine maintenance to keep your daily driver safe, replacing this hose is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve the reliability of your Volkswagen''s fuel system. At Appletree Automotive, we understand that "close enough" isn''t good enough for your vintage VW, which is why we provide the exact specifications needed to ensure a perfect fit for your Beetle, Karmann Ghia, or Type 3.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Sedan & Convertible): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973

SPECS

• OEM Part Number Reference: 311-201-219A
• Metric Length: 220mm
• Standard Length: Approximately 8.5 inches
• Inner Diameter (ID): 48mm (Approximately 1 7/8 inches)
• Outer Diameter (OD): 57mm (Approximately 2 1/4 inches)
• Wall Thickness: 4.5mm (Approximately 3/16 inches)
• Material: Heavy-duty, fuel-rated nitrile-based rubber
• Compatibility: Designed for use with leaded, unleaded, and ethanol-blended fuels

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Check Your Coupler Configuration

Before you begin your installation, it is vital to inspect your specific vehicle''s filler neck arrangement. Some Volkswagen models utilize a single long hose to connect the neck to the tank, while others use a metal coupler tube to join two shorter sections of rubber hose. If your vehicle features the metal coupler design, you will likely need to order a quantity of two of these hoses to complete the job properly. Replacing only one side of a dual-hose system is a common mistake that often leads to a second leak shortly after the first repair is finished.

Tip 2: Ease the Installation with Proper Lubrication

Sliding a brand-new, thick-walled rubber hose over a 50-year-old metal filler neck can be a struggle, especially in the tight quarters of a Beetle''s fender well. To make the process significantly easier, apply a very small amount of dish soap or a water-based lubricant to the inside edge of the hose. Avoid using petroleum-based greases or oils, as these can prematurely degrade the rubber or cause the hose to slip off even after the clamps are tightened. Once the hose is in place, the soap will dry and act as an additional friction bond.

Tip 3: Always Use New High-Quality Clamps

Never reuse the original factory spring clamps or old, rusted worm-gear clamps when installing a new fuel filler hose. Over time, these clamps lose their tension or develop sharp burrs that can slice into your brand-new rubber. We highly recommend using stainless steel T-bolt clamps or high-quality rolled-edge worm gear clamps that won''t dig into the hose material. Ensure the clamps are positioned at least 1/4 inch away from the end of the hose to prevent "mushrooming" and to provide an even, 360-degree seal against the filler neck and tank flange.