Air Cleaner, for 40-48 Idf Weber, DRLA & HPMX, 2-1/2 Tall

OVERVIEW

When you are running a high-performance dual-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 2-1/2 inch tall air cleaner is engineered specifically for the iconic Weber IDF, Dellorto DRLA, and EMPI HPMX series carburetors, providing a perfect balance between high-volume airflow and superior filtration. Crafted from heavy-duty steel with a show-quality chrome-plated finish, this assembly doesn''t just protect your internal engine components from harmful debris; it adds that essential "finished" look to your engine bay. Whether you are building a weekend cruiser or a dedicated drag racer, these air cleaners ensure that your venturis stay clean and your induction system operates at peak efficiency without the restrictive pressure drops associated with inferior paper filters.

One of the standout features of this specific model is its low-profile 2-1/2 inch height, which is the "Goldilocks" dimension for many VW enthusiasts. It provides enough surface area for the washable gauze element to breathe deeply during high-RPM pulls, yet it remains compact enough to clear the decklid on most Type 1 Beetle and Karmann Ghia applications where vertical space is at a premium. The clip-style attachment mechanism for the top plate allows for lightning-fast tool-free access to your carburetor stacks, making jetting changes or routine cleaning a breeze at the track or in the garage. Every kit comes complete with the necessary gaskets and hardware, ensuring a vacuum-tight seal against the carburetor base to prevent any unfiltered "pirate" air from leaning out your cylinders. When you choose EMPI, you are investing in decades of air-cooled heritage and a product that is built to withstand the vibration and heat of a flat-four engine.

FITMENT

This air cleaner is designed for aftermarket carburetor applications and fits the following models equipped with Weber 40/44/48 IDF, Dellorto DRLA, or EMPI HPMX carburetors:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1949-1977 (Sedan & Convertible)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956-1974
• Volkswagen Bus / Type 2: 1950-1979 (Split Window & Bay Window)
• Volkswagen Type 3: 1961-1973 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback)
• Volkswagen Thing / Type 181: 1973-1975
• Custom Applications: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, Manx-style bodies, and Trikes utilizing Type 1, Type 2, or Type 4 upright engine configurations.

SPECS

• Carburetor Compatibility: Weber 40 IDF, 44 IDF, 48 IDF; Dellorto 36, 40, 45, 48 DRLA; EMPI 40, 44, 48 HPMX.
• Overall Height: 2-1/2 Inches (63.5mm).
• Long Dimension (Length): 6-3/4 Inches.
• Short Dimension (Width): 4-1/2 Inches.
• Material: Heavy-duty stamped steel.
• Finish: Show-quality Chrome Plating.
• Filter Media: High-flow, red washable cotton gauze.
• Retention Style: Quick-release spring tension clips.
• Included Components: Chrome top plate, chrome base plate, gauze element, base gasket, and mounting hardware.

PRO TIPS

Pro Tip 1: Oiling the Element for Maximum Protection. While the red gauze element provides excellent airflow, its filtration efficiency relies on being properly "tackified." Before final installation, ensure the element is lightly and evenly treated with a high-quality cotton gauze filter oil. Avoid over-saturating the filter, as excess oil can be sucked into the carburetor air bypass circuits, potentially clogging your idle jets. A light mist is all you need to trap the fine dust particles common in desert or dusty environments.

Pro Tip 2: Check Your Decklid Clearance. Even though this 2-1/2 inch model is designed for better clearance, every VW build is unique due to varying intake manifold heights. Before slamming your decklid shut for the first time, place a small ball of aluminum foil or plumber''s putty on top of the air cleaner. Gently close the lid and then open it to check the "crush." If the lid is contacting the chrome top plate, you may need to use shorter intake manifolds or "stand-off" decklid extensions to prevent scratching your paint or vibrating the carburetor assembly.

Pro Tip 3: Synchronization and Maintenance. When synchronizing your dual carburetors with a Unisyn or similar flow meter, you must remove the air cleaner tops and elements to get an accurate reading at the throat. This is where the EMPI clip-style design shines. Always double-check that the base gaskets are seated perfectly flat against the carburetor top before tightening the mounting bolts. Any gap here acts as a massive vacuum leak, which will make it impossible to achieve a smooth idle or consistent transition from the idle circuit to the main circuit.