Narrow Oil Sump, 1 Quart Extra, Fits VW

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the longevity of your air-cooled engine, heat is the ultimate enemy. Because Volkswagen engines rely heavily on oil for both lubrication and cooling, increasing your system''s oil capacity is one of the single most effective upgrades you can perform. This EMPI Narrow Oil Sump is specifically engineered to provide an additional 1 quart of oil capacity, allowing your engine to run cooler and maintain more consistent oil pressure during spirited driving. By increasing the total volume of lubricant, you effectively slow down the rate at which the oil breaks down thermally, ensuring that your bearings, lifters, and valvetrain stay protected even under the most demanding conditions. Whether you are cruising the highway in a classic Beetle or tearing up the dunes in a rail, this sump provides the extra insurance every high-performance or stock VW engine needs.

What sets this particular sump apart from the rest is its specialized "narrow" or shallow design. Measuring only 1-3/4 inches deep, this cast aluminum sump offers the perfect balance between increased capacity and essential ground clearance. This is a critical factor for owners of lowered Cal-Look Beetles or off-road buggies where a traditional deep sump might be prone to striking the pavement or trail obstacles. The high-quality cast aluminum construction features integrated cooling fins that act like a heat sink, further dissipating heat as air passes beneath the vehicle. Each kit comes complete with the necessary mounting hardware and a pick-up tube extension, making it a comprehensive solution for any builder looking to optimize their oiling system without compromising the silhouette or safety of their ride.

FITMENT

This EMPI Narrow Oil Sump is designed for Type 1 based air-cooled engines. While primarily used on 1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc engines, it is a staple for stroker builds and performance upgrades. Fitment includes:

• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle / Bug (1954-1977)
• Volkswagen Type 1: Karmann Ghia (1956-1974)
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus / Transporter / Kombi (1954-1971 with Type 1 Engine)
• Volkswagen Type 3: Squareback, Fastback, Notchback (1961-1973)
• Volkswagen Thing: Type 181 (1973-1974)
• Custom Applications: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, Trikes, and Kit Cars utilizing VW Type 1 upright engines.

SPECS

Precision manufactured by EMPI to ensure a leak-free fit and superior thermal performance. Below are the technical specifications for the 17-2880-0 oil sump:

• Part Number: 17-2880-0
• Extra Capacity: 1 Quart (Approx. 0.95 Liters)
• Depth: Ultra-slim 1-3/4 inches (1.75")
• Material: Heavy-duty Cast Aluminum
• Finish: Natural Raw Aluminum with Cooling Fins
• Hardware: Includes mounting studs, nuts, and pick-up tube extension
• Weight: Approximately 6.05 lbs
• Compatibility: Fits most stock and aftermarket VW Type 1 engine cases

PRO TIPS

1. Secure the Pick-Up Tube Extension

When installing the included pick-up tube extension, it is absolutely vital that it is seated correctly and stays put. Many master builders prefer to use a small amount of high-strength thread locker or even a tiny tack weld to ensure the extension cannot vibrate loose over time. If the extension drops off, your oil pump will suck air instead of oil from the bottom of the sump, leading to catastrophic engine failure. Always double-check the height of the tube to ensure it is positioned about 1/4 inch from the bottom of the new sump plate for optimal scavenging.

2. Avoid Gasket Overload and RTV Mess

One of the most common mistakes is using excessive amounts of RTV silicone sealant on the sump gaskets. Excess silicone can squeeze out into the engine, break off, and clog your oil pick-up screen or internal oil galleries. Instead, use high-quality paper gaskets and a very thin smear of a non-hardening sealant like Gasgacinch or Permatex Aviation Form-A-Gasket. This ensures a liquid-tight seal without the risk of internal contamination. Remember to torque the mounting nuts in a star pattern to approximately 5-7 ft-lbs; over-tightening will warp the flange and cause permanent leaks.

3. Account for the Extra Oil Volume

Don''t forget that your standard dipstick will still show the "Full" mark based on the original crankcase level, not the new sump capacity. After installing the 1-quart extra sump, you must add the additional quart of oil on top of your standard 2.5-quart fill. Start the engine, let it cycle, and then shut it down. Wait a few minutes for the oil to settle and check your dipstick. The level should still read at the "Full" mark, but your engine now carries a total of roughly 3.5 quarts. This extra volume is what provides the cooling margin and prevents oil starvation during hard cornering.