Air Cleaner, for 40-48 Idf Weber, DRLA & HPMX, 1-5/8 Tall

OVERVIEW

When you are running a high-performance dual-carburetor setup on your air-cooled engine, breathing is everything. This EMPI low-profile air cleaner is engineered specifically for enthusiasts who demand both show-quality aesthetics and functional filtration in tight engine compartments. Designed to fit the industry-standard Weber IDF, Dellorto DRLA, and EMPI HPMX carburetor series, this assembly features a heavy-duty, chrome-plated steel top and base plate that provides a mirror-like finish for your engine bay. The 1-5/8 inch height is particularly critical for Type 3 owners (Notchback, Squareback, and Fastback) where vertical clearance is at a premium under the rear luggage deck. Whether you are building a street-pounding Beetle or a weekend-warrior Sand Rail, this air cleaner ensures your expensive internal engine components stay protected from road grit and debris without sacrificing the airflow needed to feed those thirsty venturis.

Beyond its striking appearance, the heart of this unit is a high-flow, washable gauze element. Unlike restrictive paper filters that choke your engine as they get dirty, these gauze elements can be cleaned, re-oiled, and reused for years of reliable service. The clip-style attachment mechanism allows for quick access to your carburetor stacks for tuning or maintenance without the need for cumbersome tools. Every kit comes complete with the necessary base gaskets and hardware to ensure a vacuum-tight seal against the carburetor flange. By choosing this EMPI assembly, you are investing in a component that balances the rugged durability required for off-road environments with the refined style expected at the local VW show-and-shine. Don''t let a bulky or restrictive filter assembly hold back your horsepower or ruin your engine''s clean look; upgrade to the low-profile solution that the pros use.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle: All years equipped with Dual Weber IDF, Dellorto DRLA, or EMPI HPMX carburetors.
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: Ideal for low-profile clearance under the deck lid.
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Notchback, Squareback, Fastback): Specifically designed for the shallow engine bay height.
• Volkswagen Bus (Type 2): Fits 1600cc based upright engines and Type 4 conversions.
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): Perfect for dual-carb setups in rugged environments.
• Weber Carburetors: 40 IDF, 44 IDF, and 48 IDF models.
• Dellorto Carburetors: 36 DRLA, 40 DRLA, 45 DRLA, and 48 DRLA models.
• EMPI Carburetors: 40 HPMX, 44 HPMX, and 48 HPMX models.
• Custom Applications: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes utilizing these carburetor footprints.

SPECS

• Overall Height: 1-5/8 Inches (Low Profile).
• Length (Long Dimension): 6-3/4 Inches.
• Width (Short Dimension): 4-1/2 Inches.
• Top Plate Material: Heavy-duty chrome-plated steel.
• Base Plate Material: Heavy-duty chrome-plated steel.
• Filter Media: Red washable cotton gauze element.
• Attachment Method: Tension clip style for easy removal.
• Included Hardware: Mounting gaskets and internal support hardware.
• Finish: Show-quality high-luster chrome.

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Oiling is Mandatory

While the gauze element looks great out of the box, it is vital to remember that these filters function best when properly treated with air filter oil. Before your final installation, ensure the element is lightly and evenly coated with a dedicated gauze filter oil. The oil is what actually traps the microscopic dust particles that can cause premature ring and cylinder wear. Be careful not to over-saturate the element, as excess oil can be sucked into the carburetor air bypass circuits, potentially clogging your idle jets and causing a stumble at low RPMs. Always let the oil "set" for about 15 minutes before starting the engine for the first time.

2. Verify Linkage Clearance

When installing low-profile air cleaners like the 00-9026-0, always check the full range of motion of your throttle linkage. Because the base plate sits lower to the carburetor body than standard 3-inch or 6-inch filters, certain hex-bar linkage arms or center-pull swivel assemblies might come into contact with the bottom of the air cleaner base. If you experience any binding or if the throttle doesn''t return to the idle stop freely, you may need to slightly clock your linkage arms or use a small spacer. A smooth, non-binding throttle is essential for both safety and consistent tuning on dual-carbureted air-cooled engines.

3. Seal the Base Gasket Correctly

The base gasket included in this kit is the first line of defense against "unfiltered" air entering your engine. When bolting the base plate to the top of your Weber or HPMX carb, ensure the mating surfaces are completely clean and free of old gasket residue or oil. Use a small amount of non-hardening gasket sealer if you are operating in extremely dusty off-road conditions. Tighten the mounting screws in an alternating pattern to ensure the base plate sits perfectly flat. A warped base plate or a slipped gasket can allow dirt to bypass the filter element entirely, which can quickly ruin the precision tolerances of your carburetor venturis and engine internals.