Oil Screen Kit, Fits VW 1300-1600 & Up Engines

OVERVIEW

In the world of air-cooled Volkswagens, your oil is the lifeblood that manages both lubrication and critical cooling. Unlike modern water-cooled vehicles that utilize high-pressure spin-on filters, the classic VW Type 1, 2, and 3 engines rely heavily on a mechanical straining system to keep internal components safe. This EMPI Oil Screen Kit is designed specifically for 1300cc to 1600cc based engines, providing the primary line of defense against metal shavings, carbon deposits, and road debris that can accumulate in your crankcase. By replacing your screen and gaskets during every oil change, you ensure that your oil pump remains unobstructed and your bearings receive the cleanest lubrication possible, preventing premature wear and catastrophic engine failure.

This comprehensive kit from EMPI is a complete solution for the standard maintenance interval of your vintage VW. It includes a high-quality mesh screen designed to trap particles without restricting oil flow, along with two precision-cut gaskets and a full set of copper crush washers for the oil sump plate cap nuts. Using old, flattened copper washers or torn gaskets is a guaranteed way to develop annoying oil drips or lose oil pressure. This kit eliminates the guesswork and the need to search for individual components. Whether you are running a stock 1600cc dual port in a Daily Driver Beetle or a performance-built engine in a weekend cruiser, this kit provides the factory-spec seal and filtration necessary to keep your flat-four humming for thousands of miles to come.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle: 1966-1977 (Sedan & Convertible)
• VW Super Beetle: 1971-1979
• VW Bus / Type 2: 1963-1971 (Up to 1600cc engines)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1966-1974
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1964-1973
• VW Thing: 1973-1974
• Engine Compatibility: Fits 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc based upright engines.

SPECS

• Part Number: 98-1160-0
• Material: Heavy-duty steel mesh and high-compression gasket paper.
• Screen Type: Large center hole design for 1300cc-1600cc oil pick-up tubes.
• Kit Contents: (1) Oil Screen, (2) Sump Gaskets, (6) Copper Crush Washers.
• Washer Material: Soft copper for maximum sealing potential on 10mm cap nuts.
• Gasket Material: Heat-resistant cellulose-based gasket material.
• Application: Bottom-mount oil sump plate.

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Gasket Sandwich Technique

One of the most common mistakes when installing this kit is the orientation of the gaskets. For a leak-free seal, you must create a specific "sandwich" at the bottom of the engine case. First, place one gasket against the engine case, followed by the oil screen, then the second gasket, and finally the metal sump plate. Never use RTV or silicone sealant on these gaskets; the oil will eventually cause the silicone to slick off, potentially entering your oil galleys and clogging the very screen you just installed. If you feel the need for extra sealing, a very light coat of Permatex Aviation Form-A-Gasket is the only professional choice.

2. Torque and Stud Protection

The six small studs that hold your sump plate in place are notorious for stripping or pulling out of the soft magnesium or aluminum engine case. When installing the new copper crush washers and cap nuts included in this kit, use a torque wrench and do not exceed 5 foot-pounds (or 60 inch-pounds). Over-tightening will warp the sump plate and cause a permanent leak. If you notice a stud is loose, it is best to replace it with a stepped stud or a Time-Sert before completing the oil change to ensure the new gaskets can be compressed evenly.

3. Reading Your Screen for Engine Health

Don''t just toss your old screen in the trash immediately. Spread it out and inspect the debris caught in the mesh. A small amount of carbon or "sludge" is normal for an air-cooled engine, but if you see shiny silver flakes, it may indicate bearing wear. If you find brass or gold-colored flakes, your thrust bearings or distributor drive gear might be failing. Using this kit as a diagnostic tool every 3,000 miles is the best way to catch internal engine issues before they turn into an expensive roadside breakdown.