Generator To Alternator Conversion Backing Plate, Chrome

OVERVIEW

Upgrading your vintage Volkswagen from an antiquated 6V or 12V generator to a modern high-output alternator is one of the single best reliability modifications you can make for your air-cooled engine. This EMPI Generator to Alternator Conversion Backing Plate is the essential bridge for that transition, ensuring that your new alternator sits securely and integrates seamlessly with your existing fan shroud. When you move to a modern charging system, you aren''t just getting better starts and brighter headlights; you are ensuring that your ignition system receives a steady, high-amperage flow that a generator simply cannot match. This chrome-plated 3-piece kit doesn''t just provide the necessary mechanical support; it adds a brilliant show-quality finish to your engine bay that catches the light every time you pop the decklid at a local meet or show.

Engineered from heavy-gauge stamped steel, this backing plate kit is designed to withstand the high-RPM vibrations and thermal stresses inherent in an air-cooled flat-four engine. The 3-piece configuration is critical because it mimics the original factory design, providing the correct spacing for the cooling fan and ensuring that the air pressure generated by the fan is directed through the shroud rather than leaking out behind the alternator. Many inferior one-piece plates fail to seal properly, leading to increased cylinder head temperatures and potential engine damage. With this EMPI conversion plate, you get the perfect marriage of form and function, providing a professional-grade seal that keeps your engine running cool while looking like a custom showpiece. Whether you are building a daily driver or a high-performance weekend warrior, this backing plate is a non-negotiable component for a clean alternator install.

FITMENT

This backing plate is designed for VW Type 1 upright engines (1200cc to 1600cc based) using a 12V alternator conversion. It fits the following models:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1961-1977 (Sedan and Convertible)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1961-1974
• Volkswagen Bus (Type 2): 1961-1971 (Upright engines only)
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973-1974
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes utilizing a standard VW air-cooled upright engine configuration.

SPECS

• Material: Heavy-duty stamped steel for maximum durability and resistance to warping.
• Finish: High-luster triple-chrome plating for a long-lasting show-quality shine.
• Kit Type: 3-Piece "Stock Style" design for superior air sealing.
• Compatibility: Designed specifically for standard 12-volt alternators (such as the AL82N).
• Components Included: Inner backing plate, outer cover plate, and the central spacer/baffle.
• Part Number: EMPI 00-9056-0.
• Weight: Approximately 1.21 lbs.

PRO TIPS

1. Prioritize Airflow and Sealing

When installing this 3-piece kit, ensure that each layer is nested correctly before tightening your alternator nut. The primary job of this backing plate isn''t just to hold the alternator in place; it is to act as a dam for the cooling air generated by your fan. If there are gaps between the plates or between the plate and the shroud, you will lose precious air pressure that should be cooling your cylinders. We recommend using a small amount of high-temp RTV silicone around the perimeter if your fan shroud has slight irregularities from years of use. This ensures every bit of air is forced over the oil cooler and heads, preventing overheating during long summer drives.

2. Check Fan-to-Plate Clearance

Before you fully torque down the 36mm nut on the back of the alternator shaft, give the fan a manual spin by hand. Because this is a chrome-plated steel part, it can occasionally have a slightly thicker profile than an unpainted stock unit. You want to verify that the cooling fan spins freely without making any metal-on-metal contact with the backing plate. If you hear a scraping sound, you may need to add a thin shim washer behind the fan to provide the necessary clearance. A scraping fan doesn''t just make noise; it creates heat and can eventually lead to mechanical failure of the fan or the alternator bearings.

3. Maintain the Chrome Finish

The engine bay of an air-cooled VW is a harsh environment filled with heat and occasional oil mist. To keep your EMPI chrome backing plate looking brand new, avoid using harsh degreasers directly on the chrome surface, as they can dull the finish over time. Instead, wipe it down with a soft microfiber cloth and a dedicated chrome polish every few months. Additionally, when installing, ensure your hands are clean or wear gloves; oils from your skin can "bake" into the chrome once the engine reaches operating temperature, leading to permanent staining. A clean backing plate reflects heat better and keeps your engine looking professional.