Oil Cooler Adapter, for 71-79 VW Doghouse Style Oil Coolers

OVERVIEW

When you are pushing your air-cooled Volkswagen to its limitswhether that is navigating scorching desert trails in a dune buggy or cruising the interstate in a late-model Super Beetlemanaging oil temperatures is the single most critical factor for engine longevity. The EMPI Oil Cooler Adapter is the professional-grade solution for enthusiasts looking to move beyond the limitations of the factory cooling system. Specifically designed for the 1971 through 1979 "Doghouse" style fan shrouds, this adapter allows you to bypass the stock internal oil cooler and reroute your engine''s lifeblood to a high-capacity external cooling unit or a remote oil filter setup. By relocating the cooling process away from the engine''s cylinders and heads, you significantly reduce the thermal load on the case, preventing the dreaded "softening" of the magnesium or aluminum alloy that leads to pulled head studs and oil leaks.

Crafted with the precision that EMPI is known for, this kit features a high-quality die-cast aluminum block-off plate that ensures a perfectly flat mating surface against your engine case or oil cooler stand. The "Doghouse" design is unique because it utilizes an offset cooler that sits outside the main fan shroud, and this adapter is engineered to bolt directly into that specific footprint without modification. For the dedicated do-it-yourselfer, this kit provides a seamless transition to a full-flow or external cooling circuit, offering the peace of mind that comes with stabilized oil pressures and lower operating temperatures. Whether you are building a high-compression 1776cc street sleeper or a rugged off-road machine, this adapter is the foundation of a robust thermal management strategy that keeps your VW running cooler, longer, and stronger.

FITMENT

This adapter is designed specifically for Volkswagen Type 1 engines equipped with the "Doghouse" style oil cooler (1971 and later). It fits the following models:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1971-1977
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971-1979
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1971-1974
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973-1974
• Volkswagen Bus / Transporter (Type 2): 1971 (with 1600cc dual-port engine)
• Custom Applications: Any VW air-cooled engine retrofitted with a 1971-up Doghouse fan shroud and oil cooler stand.

SPECS

• Product Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 3016-20
• OEM Reference Number: 113-117-303
• Material: Heavy-duty precision die-cast aluminum alloy.
• Adapter Style: Doghouse (Offset) bypass plate.
• Port Size: Standard 3/8-inch NPT threaded outlets for easy hose fitting integration.
• Kit Includes: Die-cast adapter plate and necessary mounting hardware.
• Finish: Natural cast aluminum for excellent heat dissipation and corrosion resistance.
• Weight: Approximately 1.31 lbs.

PRO TIPS

1. Ensure a Leak-Free Seal with Proper Gaskets

When installing the EMPI Oil Cooler Adapter, the seal between the adapter and the oil cooler stand is paramount. Always use high-quality "Step" or "Doghouse" style oil cooler seals (typically the red or orange silicone versions). Before seating the adapter, inspect the mounting surface on the engine case or cooler stand for any burrs or old gasket material. Even a microscopic piece of debris can lead to a high-pressure oil leak. We recommend a very light coat of Curil-T or a similar non-hardening sealant on the seals to ensure a perfect vacuum and pressure-tight fit, but avoid using RTV silicone which can squeeze into the oil galleries and cause catastrophic engine failure.

2. Plan Your Hose Routing Carefully

Since this adapter reroutes your oil externally, the way you run your lines is just as important as the adapter itself. Use high-pressure, high-temperature braided stainless steel or reinforced rubber oil lines. Ensure that the lines are routed away from the exhaust system and any moving suspension components. Use cushioned P-clamps to secure the lines to the chassis to prevent vibration-induced chafing. Remember, the goal of an external cooler is to keep the oil cool; if your lines are resting against a hot header, you are effectively reheating the oil before it even reaches the engine bearings.

3. Monitor Your Oil Pressure After Installation

Whenever you modify the oiling circuit of an air-cooled VW, it is a master-level practice to install an oil pressure gauge if you haven''t already. Adding an external cooler and longer lines increases the volume of the system and can slightly alter your pressure readings. After the first startup with the new adapter, let the engine reach operating temperature and check all fittings for leaks. Ensure your oil pump is high-volume enough to push oil through the additional distance of the external lines. If you notice a significant drop in pressure at idle once warm, you may need to upgrade to a 26mm or 30mm heavy-duty oil pump to complement your new cooling setup.