Air Jet DGV, DFV, ICT, EPC 160

Product Overview: Precision Tuning for Your Air-Cooled Engine

Precision is the cornerstone of a well-running air-cooled Volkswagen, and nothing dictates your engine''s behavior at high speeds quite like your air corrector jets. The EMPI Air Jet 160 is a critical component for enthusiasts and professionals looking to dial in the fuel-to-air ratio on Weber DGV, DFV, and ICT carburetors, as well as the EMPI EPC series. When your engine transitions from the idle circuit to the high-speed circuit, the air jet works in tandem with the emulsion tube to "lean out" the mixture as RPMs increase. Without the correct air jet sizing, your engine may suffer from a "rich" bog at high speeds or a lack of power when you need it most. This size 160 jet is meticulously machined from high-quality brass to ensure consistent flow rates and long-term durability against modern fuel additives.

Whether you are running a single progressive Weber on a daily driver Beetle or a dual ICT setup on a weekend cruiser, having a selection of air jets is essential for proper dyno or road tuning. The 160 sizing is a popular choice for many standard 1600cc to 1776cc builds, providing the necessary aeration to prevent the main circuit from becoming over-saturated with fuel. By fine-tuning with EMPI genuine components, you ensure that your carburetor responds exactly as the engineers intended. Don''t settle for "close enough" when it comes to your VW''s performance; these jets allow you to achieve that crisp throttle response and optimal fuel economy that makes driving a classic Volkswagen so rewarding. Each jet is sold individually, allowing you to customize your jetting kit to your specific engine''s requirements.

Vehicle and Carburetor Fitment

This air jet is designed for use with specific Weber and EMPI carburetor models commonly found on the following vehicles and applications:

• Weber DGV & DGAV Series: Common on progressive carburetor conversions for VW Beetle, Ghia, and Bus.
• Weber DFV & DFAV Series: Used in various performance and replacement applications.
• Weber ICT Series: Popular for dual-carburetor setups on Type 1 and Type 3 engines.
• EMPI EPC 34 / 36 Series: The modern performance equivalent for air-cooled VW dual-carb kits.
• Volkswagen Beetle: 1950 through 1979 (with carburetor conversion).
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974 (with carburetor conversion).
• Volkswagen Bus / Transporter: 1950 through 1979 (Type 2 applications).
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961 through 1973.
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974.

Technical Specifications

• Product Type: Carburetor Air Corrector Jet.
• Jet Size: 160 (Metric sizing equivalent to 1.60mm).
• Material: High-grade precision-machined brass.
• Compatibility: Fits Weber DGV, DFV, ICT, and EMPI EPC series carburetors.
• Installation Location: Top of the emulsion tube stack.
• Function: Controls the volume of air mixed with fuel in the main circuit.
• Part Number: 77201.160.
• Sold As: Individually (1 unit).

Expert Pro Tips from Appletree Auto

Understanding the Inverse Relationship

One of the most common mistakes when tuning a Weber or EMPI carburetor is treating the air jet like a main fuel jet. Remember the "Inverse Rule": A LARGER air jet actually LEANS OUT the mixture at high RPMs, while a SMALLER air jet makes it RICHER. If your engine is sputtering and blowing black smoke at wide-open throttle, you likely need to go UP in air jet size, such as moving to this 160 if you are currently running a 140 or 150. Conversely, if the engine feels like it is "running out of gas" or surging at high speeds, you might need a smaller air jet to keep the fuel density higher.

Eliminating the High-Speed Flat Spot

If your Volkswagen feels great around town but develops a noticeable "flat spot" or hesitation as you accelerate onto the highway, your air jet is the primary suspect. The air jet''s influence increases as the airflow through the carburetor increases. If you find that changing your main fuel jets helps the midrange but ruins the top-end, leave the main jet alone and experiment with the air corrector. The size 160 is often the "sweet spot" for many 1600cc dual ICT setups, providing enough air to keep the engine pulling cleanly all the way to the redline without leaning out dangerously.

Maintain Surgical Cleanliness

When installing or swapping air jets, cleanliness is absolutely paramount. Even a microscopic piece of lint or a tiny grain of sand can partially obstruct the air passage, leading to inconsistent cylinder temperatures and poor performance. Always use a high-quality, flat-blade screwdriver that fits the slot perfectly to avoid marring the soft brass. If you drop a jet in the dirt, don''t just wipe it off; use pressurized carburetor cleaner to blow through the orifice. Finally, never over-tighten these jets; they only need to be snug. Over-torquing can distort the brass threads or the carburetor body, leading to permanent damage.