Alternator 3 Piece Backing Plate Kit, Gray

OVERVIEW

Precision cooling is the lifeblood of any air-cooled Volkswagen engine, and the EMPI Alternator 3-Piece Backing Plate Kit in Gray is a critical component in maintaining that thermal efficiency. When you are upgrading from an older generator to a modern 12-volt alternator, or simply refreshing a worn-out engine bay, the backing plate assembly is often the most overlooked yet vital piece of the puzzle. These plates do not just sit there for aesthetics; they serve as the structural mounting point that sandwiches the fan shroud and ensures the cooling fan is perfectly positioned within the internal ducting. Without a high-quality, straight, and properly spaced backing plate kit, you risk devastating fan-to-shroud interference, which can lead to metal shavings in your intake and catastrophic cooling failure. This EMPI kit provides the industrial-grade durability needed to keep your Type 1 upright engine running cool under the most demanding conditions, whether you are cruising the strip in a Cal-Look Beetle or climbing dunes in a custom rail.

This comprehensive 3-piece kit is finished in a professional, understated gray coating that resists heat and oil, making it a perfect match for stock-style builds or custom engine themes. The kit includes the inner backing plate, the outer backing plate, and the essential center collar/spacer. The collar is particularly important because it establishes the exact offset required for the fan to clear the shroud while maintaining maximum suction. Many builders make the mistake of reusing old, warped plates that have been hammered out of shape over the decades, leading to air leaks that bleed off precious cooling pressure. By installing this fresh EMPI assembly, you ensure a tight, factory-spec seal against the fan shroud, forcing every cubic foot of air over your cylinders and oil cooler where it belongs. It is a small investment that pays massive dividends in engine longevity and peace of mind during those hot summer drives.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1954 through 1977 (Standard and Super Beetle)
• Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus: 1954 through 1971 (With Upright Type 1 Engine)
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes utilizing a VW Type 1 1200cc to 1600cc+ Upright Engine
• Compatibility Note: Designed specifically for 12-Volt Alternator or Generator conversions and standard 12-Volt applications.

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-9061-G
• Material: Heavy-Duty Stamped Steel
• Finish: Industrial Gray Protective Coating
• Configuration: 3-Piece Assembly (Inner Plate, Outer Plate, and Spacer Collar)
• Application: Type 1 Upright Cooling Systems
• Voltage Compatibility: Optimized for 12V Alternators and Generators
• Weight: 1.16 lbs
• GTIN: 707924509236

PRO TIPS

1. Verify Fan Clearance Before Final Torque

One of the most common mistakes when installing a new backing plate kit is assuming the fan will automatically clear the shroud. After you have the plates and the fan bolted onto the alternator, but before you fully tighten the alternator strap, rotate the fan by hand. Listen closely for any scraping or "tinkling" sounds against the fan shroud. If you hear contact, you may need to adjust the position of the shroud or check that the center collar is seated perfectly flush. Even a millimeter of misalignment can cause the fan to rub under high RPMs when the metal expands due to heat, so always double-check this clearance while the engine is on the stand or accessible in the bay.

2. Inspect the Alternator Woodruffe Key and Nut

When you have the backing plates off, it is the perfect time to inspect the alternator shaft and the Woodruffe key that holds the fan in place. Ensure the keyway is not wallowed out and that the key sits snugly. When installing the backing plates, make sure they are centered on the alternator shoulder. Use a high-quality wave washer and a properly torqued 36mm fan nut. If the backing plates are not held firmly against the alternator face, the vibration can cause the plates to "chatter," which eventually leads to the center holes becoming oval-shaped and ruining the kit.

3. Don''t Forget the Air Seal

To get the absolute best performance out of your cooling system, look at the interface between the backing plates and the fan shroud. While the EMPI kit is precision-stamped, older fan shrouds can sometimes be slightly distorted from years of use. If you notice a visible gap between the plates and the shroud after installation, you are losing cooling air that should be going to your heads. A very thin bead of high-temp RTV or a thin foam gasket can be used on the perimeter of the backing plate to ensure a 100% airtight seal. This ensures that your alternator is pulling air through the shroud exactly as the Volkswagen engineers intended, keeping your CHTs (Cylinder Head Temperatures) in the safe zone.