Pushrod Measuring Tool, for Aircooled VW Motors

OVERVIEW

Precision is the cornerstone of any high-performance engine build, and when it comes to the air-cooled Volkswagen valvetrain, there is no room for guesswork. The EMPI Pushrod Measuring Tool is an absolute necessity for the serious engine builder or dedicated DIY enthusiast looking to achieve perfect rocker arm geometry. In the world of performance VW engines, standard "stock" length pushrods are rarely the correct fit once you begin modifying deck heights, installing high-lift camshafts, or utilizing long-stroke crankshafts. Without the correct pushrod length, your rocker arms will not sweep across the valve stem correctly, leading to accelerated guide wear, lost lift, and potential valvetrain failure. This tool eliminates the old-fashioned "trial and error" method, allowing you to find the exact dimension required for your specific engine combination before you commit to cutting expensive chromoly pushrods.

Crafted for durability and ease of use, this adjustable dummy pushrod features a threaded design that allows for micro-adjustments within the engine case. To use it, you simply replace a standard pushrod with this tool, bolt your rocker shaft into place, and expand the tool until the desired geometry is achievedtypically when the rocker arm is at a 90-degree angle to the valve stem at half-lift. Once the sweet spot is found, you can remove the tool, measure its length from tip to tip, and order or cut your permanent pushrods to that exact specification. Whether you are building a mild 1600cc daily driver or a high-revving 2332cc drag motor, the EMPI AC000119 provides the professional-grade accuracy needed to ensure your engine''s valvetrain operates with maximum efficiency and longevity.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle, Bug, and Super Beetle (All Years)
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus, Transporter, Kombi, and Microbus (1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc)
• Volkswagen Type 3: Fastback, Squareback, and Notchback
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: All Years and Models
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): All Years
• Custom Applications: Sand Rails, Dune Buggies, and Trikes utilizing Air-Cooled VW Engines
• Engine Sizes: Compatible with 1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, 1600cc, 1776cc, 1835cc, 1914cc, 2110cc, 2276cc, and larger stroker builds.

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: AC000119
• Material: High-strength steel construction for zero flex during measurement
• Adjustment Mechanism: Fine-thread internal adjustment for precision accuracy
• End Type: Ball-style ends compatible with standard VW lifters and rocker arms
• Quantity: Sold individually (1 Piece)
• Finish: Zinc-plated or natural steel for corrosion resistance
• Application: Measuring tool only (Not for permanent engine installation)

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: The Half-Lift Geometry Rule

When using this tool, your primary goal is to achieve "half-lift geometry." This means that when your camshaft is at exactly half of its total lift, the rocker arm should be perfectly perpendicular (90 degrees) to the valve stem. Using the EMPI measuring tool, adjust the length until the rocker arm tip is centered on the valve stem at this mid-point. This ensures the smallest possible "sweep" across the valve tip, which significantly reduces side-loading on your valve guides and prevents premature wear in high-RPM scenarios.

Tip 2: Account for Thermal Expansion

Always remember that different materials expand at different rates when your engine reaches operating temperature. If you are measuring for aluminum pushrods, you generally want to set your valves at "zero lash" (or a very slight preload) while the engine is cold. However, if you are moving to chromoly pushrods, they do not expand as much as the aluminum engine case and cylinders. When using this tool to order chromoly rods, ensure you factor in the recommended "loose" cold gap (usually .000 inches or "T-tight") to ensure that as the engine grows, the valves don''t stay propped open.

Tip 3: Measure Twice, Cut Once

Don''t just measure one cylinder and assume the rest are identical. Due to manufacturing tolerances in engine cases, cylinder head seating, and even camshaft grinding, there can be slight variations between the left and right banks of your engine. We highly recommend using the measuring tool on at least one intake and one exhaust valve on both side one (Cylinders 1 and 2) and side two (Cylinders 3 and 4). If you find a significant discrepancy, you may need to order custom-length pushrods in two different sets to ensure your geometry is perfect across the entire valvetrain.