Air Cleaner Element, 4.5 X 7 X 6 Tall, Oval, Gauze

OVERVIEW

When it comes to maintaining the peak performance of your air-cooled engine, nothing is more critical than the quality of the air being fed into your carburetor. This EMPI 6-inch tall oval gauze air cleaner element is designed specifically for high-performance applications where standard, shorter filters simply cannot provide the necessary volume of clean air. By increasing the surface area with a full 6 inches of height, this element allows your engine to breathe more freely, reducing intake restriction and ensuring that your Weber or EMPI progressive carburetor can deliver the fuel-air mixture required for maximum horsepower. Whether you are cruising the strip in a classic Beetle or tearing up the dunes in a custom sandrail, this high-flow gauze element provides the perfect balance of filtration and airflow, protecting your internal engine components from abrasive dust and debris while maintaining a sleek, aggressive look under the hood.

Construction-quality is paramount with this replacement element, featuring a premium multi-layer cotton gauze media that is both washable and reusable. Unlike paper filters that must be discarded once they become clogged, this gauze unit can be cleaned and re-oiled, making it a cost-effective, long-term solution for any VW enthusiast. The 4.5-inch by 7-inch oval footprint is a standard size for many popular chrome air cleaner assemblies, but the extra 6-inch height sets it apart by providing a massive increase in filtration capacity. This is especially beneficial for engines equipped with performance camshafts and high-flow heads that demand more air than a stock-style filter can provide. Don''t settle for restricted performance when you can upgrade to a filter that is built to handle the rigors of the road and the trail alike.

FITMENT

This air cleaner element is designed to fit standard 4.5-inch x 7-inch oval air cleaner housings commonly used on the following applications:

• Volkswagen Beetle: All years equipped with Weber Progressive or EMPI EPC 32/36 carburetors.
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: All years utilizing oval-style performance air cleaner assemblies.
• Volkswagen Bus / Type 2: 1950-1979 models with aftermarket carburetor conversions.
• Volkswagen Type 3: Notchback, Squareback, and Fastback with custom intake setups.
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): All years with upgraded carburetion.
• Dune Buggies & Sandrails: Ideal for open-engine configurations where high-volume air filtration is required.
• Carburetor Compatibility: Fits Weber DGV, DGAV, DFEV, and EMPI EPC 32/36 Progressive series.

SPECS

• Filter Shape: Oval
• Filter Height: 6 Inches (Extra Tall)
• Filter Width: 4.5 Inches
• Filter Length: 7 Inches
• Filter Media: High-Flow Washable Cotton Gauze
• Color: Red (Pre-oiled or ready for oiling)
• Replacement Part Number: AC129503
• End Cap Material: Durable Polyurethane
• Frame Support: Integrated wire mesh for structural integrity at high RPM

PRO TIPS

1. Check Your Decklid Clearance Before Installation

Because this is a 6-inch tall element, it is significantly higher than the standard 2-inch or 4-inch filters typically found on air-cooled Volkswagens. Before you finalize your purchase or installation, ensure that you have adequate vertical clearance between the top of the air cleaner and your decklid or engine cage. On many standard Beetles with a Weber Progressive carb, a 6-inch tall filter may require a decklid standoff kit or a custom "bubble" to prevent the air cleaner assembly from hitting the underside of the lid. Always measure twice to avoid damaging your paint or the filter housing when closing the engine compartment for the first time.

2. Proper Cleaning and Re-Oiling Procedures

To maximize the life of your gauze element, you must use a dedicated cleaning kit designed for cotton gauze filters. Never use compressed air to dry the filter, as the high pressure can create tiny holes in the cotton fibers, allowing dirt to pass directly into your engine. After cleaning and allowing the filter to air-dry completely, apply a uniform coat of filter oil. It is vital not to over-oil the element; excess oil can be sucked into the carburetor, potentially clogging the air air jets or causing tuning issues. A light, even red tint across the gauze is all you need for effective filtration.

3. The Importance of a Secure Seal

When installing this element into your oval chrome housing, ensure that the top and bottom plates are perfectly aligned and that the wing nut or mounting bolts are tightened sufficiently to compress the polyurethane ends of the filter. A common mistake is leaving the housing slightly loose, which allows "dirty" air to bypass the filter media entirely and enter through the gaps. Since air-cooled VW engines operate in high-vibration environments, check the tightness of your air cleaner assembly during every oil change to ensure your engine remains protected from the elements, especially if you drive in dusty off-road conditions.