Carburetor Rebuild Kit, for Dellorto 36-40 DRLA

OVERVIEW

Restore the precision and legendary performance of your vintage Italian induction system with the EMPI Carburetor Rebuild Kit, specifically engineered for Dellorto 36 and 40 DRLA series carburetors. Often regarded as the finest downdraft carburetors ever produced for the air-cooled Volkswagen, the Dellorto DRLA offers unmatched tunability and throttle response. However, even the best engineering eventually falls victim to time, heat, and the corrosive nature of modern ethanol-blended fuels. If you are experiencing stumbling under acceleration, erratic idling, or visible fuel weeping around the gaskets, it is time for a comprehensive refresh. This kit provides the professional-grade components necessary to seal your fuel system and ensure your Type 1, Type 2, or Type 3 engine receives the exact air-fuel mixture it demands for peak horsepower and reliability.

This EMPI premium rebuild kit is a complete solution designed to take the guesswork out of maintenance. Every component is manufactured to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, ensuring a perfect fit and a leak-free seal. Inside the kit, you will find the critical accelerator pump diaphragm, which is essential for eliminating that annoying "flat spot" during transition, as well as a high-quality needle and seat assembly to prevent flooding and maintain stable float levels. By replacing hardened O-rings and brittle paper gaskets with these fresh, ethanol-resistant materials, you are not just fixing a leak; you are protecting your engine from lean-run conditions and potential fire hazards. Whether you are running a mild 1600cc cruiser or a high-revving 2275cc street machine, these Dellorto DRLA components are the key to unlocking the smooth, crisp performance your VW deserves.

FITMENT

This rebuild kit is designed for dual-carburetor applications utilizing genuine Dellorto DRLA series carburetors. One kit is required per carburetor (two kits needed for a standard dual-carb setup).

• Dellorto 36 DRLA: All variations typically found on performance VW engines.
• Dellorto 40 DRLA: All variations including universal and Alfa Romeo takeoff models.
• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle, Karmann Ghia, and Thing (1950-1979) equipped with DRLA dual-carburetor kits.
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus, Transporter, and Westfalia (1950-1971) utilizing upright Type 1 engine configurations.
• Volkswagen Type 3: Notchback, Squareback, and Fastback performance builds.
• Sand Rails & Dune Buggies: All custom air-cooled VW-based off-road vehicles running DRLA induction.

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI.
• Part Number: 00-9950-0.
• UPC: 707924318449.
• Compatibility: Dellorto DRLA 36mm and 40mm Downdraft Carburetors.
• Needle & Seat: High-precision assembly included for consistent fuel bowl levels.
• Diaphragms: Heavy-duty accelerator pump diaphragm for crisp throttle response.
• Gasket Material: High-density, fuel-resistant composite paper for superior sealing.
• O-Rings: Viton-style synthetic rubber resistant to modern ethanol (E10) additives.
• Washers: Full set of aluminum and fiber sealing washers for banjo bolts and fuel inlets.
• Weight: 0.16 lbs (shipping weight).

PRO TIPS

1. Deep Clean Before Assembly

When you have the carburetor torn down for a rebuild, don''t just swap the parts and call it a day. The tiny internal galleries of a Dellorto DRLA are notorious for collecting varnish and debris. We highly recommend using an ultrasonic cleaner with a mild cleaning solution to strip away years of buildup. If you don''t have access to an ultrasonic tank, use a high-quality aerosol carburetor cleaner followed by compressed air. Ensure that every single jet, emulsion tube, and air bypass circuit is completely clear. Remember, even a microscopic piece of grit can cause a lean condition that ruins an expensive air-cooled cylinder head.

2. Inspect the Throttle Shafts and Flanges

Before installing your new gaskets, take a moment to inspect the health of your carburetor bodies. Dellorto carburetors are legendary, but they can develop wear in the throttle shaft bushings over decades of use. Wiggle the throttle shaft; if there is significant side-to-side play, you may have a vacuum leak that no gasket kit can fix. Additionally, use a true straight-edge to check the mounting flanges. If the flanges are warped from over-tightening, the new base gaskets won''t seal properly. If they are slightly bowed, you can often "lap" them flat on a piece of glass with fine-grit sandpaper to ensure a perfect vacuum seal.

3. Set Your Float Height and Fuel Pressure

The needle and seat included in this kit are precision components, but they must be adjusted correctly to function. After installing the new needle and seat, always check your float height according to the factory Dellorto specifications (typically 5mm to 6mm depending on the specific model). An incorrect float level will cause the engine to run too rich or too lean regardless of your jetting. Furthermore, Dellortos are sensitive to fuel pressure. We strongly recommend using a high-quality fuel pressure regulator (like a Malpassi Filter King) set to no more than 2.5 to 3.0 PSI. Excessive pressure from a stock or high-performance pump can overwhelm the new needle and seat, leading to flooding and poor idle quality.