Air Cleaner Assembly, Fits DcnF, 4.5x7 Oval, 1.75 Tall

High-Performance Filtration for Your Weber DCNF Setup

When you''re running a high-performance Weber DCNF carburetor setup on your air-cooled Volkswagen, the quality of the air entering your engine is just as critical as the fuel mixture itself. This EMPI Air Cleaner Assembly is engineered to provide the perfect balance of maximum airflow and superior filtration, ensuring your engine breathes easy while staying protected from harmful road debris and dust. Featuring a heavy-duty, show-quality chrome-plated steel top and base, this assembly doesn''t just performit adds a polished, professional look to your engine bay. Whether you are running a single center-mount DCNF or a dual-carburetor configuration, these 1.75-inch tall oval cleaners provide the necessary clearance for tight engine compartments, such as those found in Karmann Ghias or lowered Beetles, without sacrificing the volume of air needed for peak combustion.

Beyond its striking aesthetics, the heart of this assembly is the high-flow, washable gauze element. Unlike restrictive paper filters that need frequent replacement and can choke your engine as they clog, this red gauze material is designed for longevity and repeatable performance. It is pre-oiled and ready to install right out of the box, offering a significant upgrade over stock filtration systems. The 4.5-inch by 7-inch oval footprint is specifically tailored to the Weber 40 and 42 DCNF series carburetors, providing a secure, leak-free fit thanks to the included high-quality mounting hardware and base gaskets. If you are looking to maintain the health of your flat-four while demanding the aggressive induction sound and throttle response that Weber carburetors are famous for, this EMPI assembly is the industry standard choice for serious VW enthusiasts and builders.

Vehicle Fitment and Carburetor Compatibility

This air cleaner assembly is designed specifically for Weber DCNF series carburetors and is a popular choice for the following air-cooled applications using aftermarket intake manifolds:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1954 through 1977 (Sedan and Convertible)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter: 1955 through 1971 (With DCNF conversion)
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961 through 1973
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, Manx-style bodies, and Trikes utilizing Weber 40 DCNF or 42 DCNF carburetors.

Technical Specifications and Dimensions

Built to exacting standards, this assembly provides the durability required for both daily driving and off-road environments. Below are the specific technical details:

• Carburetor Fitment: Specifically designed for Weber 40 DCNF and Weber 42 DCNF.
• Base Material: Heavy-gauge stamped steel with high-luster chrome plating.
• Top Plate Material: Matching chrome-plated steel for a uniform show-car finish.
• Filter Type: Washable, reusable red cotton gauze element.
• Overall Length: 7.00 Inches.
• Overall Width: 4.50 Inches.
• Total Height: 1.75 Inches (Low profile for increased clearance).
• Included Hardware: Mounting studs/clips and specialized base gasket.
• Part Number: 00-8726-0 (EMPI).

Expert Pro Tips from Appletree Automotive

Pro Tip 1: The Secret to Longevity is Proper Oiling

Since this assembly utilizes a gauze element, it is vital to clean and re-oil it periodically. However, the most common mistake is over-oiling the filter. After washing the element with a dedicated cleaner and letting it air dry completely, apply the filter oil evenly but sparingly. Let the oil "wick" through the pleats for about 20 minutes before installation. Over-oiling can lead to oil droplets being sucked into the carburetor air bypass circuits, which can gum up your idle jets and cause erratic performance. A light, even coat is all you need to trap fine particulates effectively.

Pro Tip 2: Check Your Decklid Clearance

The 1.75-inch height of this air cleaner is specifically designed to help with clearance issues, but on some Type 1 Beetles with high-rise manifolds or Karmann Ghias with very low decklid profiles, space can still be tight. Before slamming your decklid shut for the first time after installation, use a small piece of "Play-Doh" or putty on top of the air cleaner. Close the lid gently, then open it to see how much the putty was compressed. This ensures you won''t dent your chrome top plate or, worse, your car''s paintwork during engine vibration or under hard acceleration.

Pro Tip 3: Ensure a Perfect Seal at the Base

Vacuum leaks or "dirty air" bypass are the enemies of a well-tuned Weber DCNF. When installing the base plate, ensure the included gasket is perfectly centered on the carburetor throat. Even a slight misalignment can create a lip that disrupts airflow or allows unfiltered air to enter the engine. We recommend a tiny dab of grease on the gasket to hold it in place during the assembly process. Additionally, check the tightness of the mounting hardware after the first 100 miles of driving, as heat cycles can sometimes cause the assembly to settle, requiring a minor re-snug to maintain a perfect seal.