Air Cleaner Element, 5-1/2 Diameter, 3-1/8 Tall, Gauze

OVERVIEW

When it's time to breathe new life into your air-cooled engine, the EMPI High-Flow Gauze Air Cleaner Element is the professional choice for enthusiasts who demand more than just a standard paper filter. Designed specifically for the classic Volkswagen platform, this 5-1/2 inch diameter element provides a significant upgrade in both filtration efficiency and airflow volume. In the world of air-cooled engines, heat is the enemy and clean air is the lifeline; this gauze element ensures that your carburetor receives a steady, turbulent-free stream of oxygen while trapping even the finest particulates that can lead to premature cylinder wall wear. Whether you are cruising the coastline in a vintage Beetle or tearing up the dunes in a custom rail, this element is engineered to withstand the vibrations and high-heat environments typical of the VW engine bay.

What sets this EMPI element apart is its versatile gauze construction, which offers a distinct advantage over disposable paper alternatives. This element is fully washable and re-oilable, making it a long-term investment for your build rather than a recurring maintenance expense. It serves as the direct replacement for the popular EMPI 00-9045-0 and 00-9047-0 air cleaner assemblies, ensuring a perfect seal within the chrome housings. By utilizing a multi-layer cotton gauze media reinforced by a durable wire mesh, this filter maintains its structural integrity even under high-vacuum conditions. If you have noticed a drop in throttle response or a rich-running condition, swapping out your clogged old filter for this high-performance gauze unit is one of the simplest and most effective ways to restore your VW''s peak operating efficiency.

FITMENT

This air cleaner element is designed for use with various aftermarket and stock-style high-flow air cleaner assemblies. Please verify your housing dimensions before ordering.

• VW Beetle (Type 1): 1950-1979 (With aftermarket chrome air cleaner housings)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956-1974
• VW Bus (Type 2): 1950-1979 (Fits most upright engine configurations)
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961-1973
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973-1974
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All years using 5-1/2 inch round air cleaner bases
• Carburetor Compatibility: Fits setups using Solex 30/31 PICT, 34 PICT-3, and Weber Progressive (DGV/DFEV) series carburetors with compatible 5-1/2 inch round housings.

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-9049-0
• Diameter: 5-1/2 Inches (140mm)
• Height: 3-1/8 Inches (79.3mm)
• Filter Material: Multi-layer High-Flow Cotton Gauze
• Reinforcement: Epoxy-coated steel wire mesh
• Washable: Yes (Requires gauze filter cleaner and oil kit)
• Replacement For: EMPI 00-9045-0 and 00-9047-0
• Color: Natural Gauze (Typically Red when oiled)

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Cleaning and Oiling Procedure

To maximize the lifespan of your gauze element, never use compressed air to dry it after washing. High-pressure air can tear the delicate cotton fibers, creating large holes that allow dirt to pass directly into your engine. Instead, use a dedicated gauze filter cleaner, rinse with low-pressure water from the inside out, and let it air dry completely. When re-oiling, apply a uniform coat and wait at least 20 minutes for the oil to "wick" through the fibers before installation. An over-oiled filter can cause oil droplets to be sucked into the carburetor, potentially clogging air air jets or causing erratic idling.

2. Check Your Housing Seal

Even the best air filter in the world won''t help if air is bypassing the element. When installing this 3-1/8 inch tall element, ensure that your air cleaner top plate and base plate are not warped. Tighten the center nut or clips just enough to compress the rubber seals on the top and bottom of the element. If you see any gaps, or if the element "wiggles" inside the housing, you may need to add a thin foam gasket or straighten your chrome plates. Unfiltered air entering the carburetor is the leading cause of internal engine scarring in off-road environments.

3. Monitor Jetting After Installation

Switching from a restrictive, dirty paper filter to a high-flow gauze element can significantly change the air-to-fuel ratio of your engine. Because this EMPI element allows for much higher CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) of airflow, your engine may lean out slightly at higher RPMs. After installing a fresh gauze element, we recommend performing a "plug chop" or using a wideband O2 sensor to ensure your jetting is still correct. In many cases, you might find that your engine can handle a slightly larger main jet, resulting in better cooling and more power across the entire powerband.