Alternator Generator Backing Plate, Black

OVERVIEW

As any seasoned air-cooled veteran knows, the cooling system of a Volkswagen Type 1 engine is a delicate balance of pressure and airflow. The EMPI Alternator or Generator Backing Plate in a sleek black finish is more than just a piece of sheet metal; it is a critical component for maintaining the integrity of your engine''s cooling shroud. When you are upgrading from an old 6-volt generator to a modern 12-volt alternator, or simply restoring a high-performance 1600cc dual-port engine, this backing plate ensures that the high-velocity air generated by your cooling fan stays exactly where it belongsforced over the cylinders and heads. Without a solid, well-fitting backing plate, you risk significant air loss behind the fan shroud, which can lead to localized hotspots and devastating engine failure during the heat of the summer or under heavy load in a sand rail.

This heavy-duty steel backing plate is finished in a durable black coating that offers a clean, professional appearance for those who prefer a stealthy or factory-plus look over flashy chrome. Engineered by EMPI to meet precise OEM specifications, this plate provides the perfect mounting surface for your 12-volt charging unit. It features the standard four-bolt mounting pattern designed to secure firmly to the rear of the fan shroud, creating a tight seal that prevents cooling air from escaping. Whether you are building a show-winning Beetle, a rugged Baja Bug, or a reliable daily-driver Karmann Ghia, this backing plate is an essential part of a "cool-running" engine assembly. Don''t settle for warped or rusted original plates that leak air; upgrading to a fresh, rigid plate is one of the easiest ways to ensure your air-cooled investment stays within safe operating temperatures.

FITMENT

This backing plate is designed for Volkswagen Type 1 upright engines (1200cc-1600cc based) using 12-volt generators or alternators: Volkswagen Beetle (Sedan & Convertible): 1950-1979 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956-1974 Volkswagen Bus / Type 2 (Upright Engines): 1950-1971 Volkswagen Thing / Type 181: 1973-1974 Custom Applications: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes using VW upright cooling systems.

SPECS

• Material: Heavy-gauge stamped steel for maximum rigidity.
• Finish: Semi-gloss black powder-style coating for corrosion resistance.
• Compatibility: Designed for standard 12-Volt Alternators and 12-Volt Generators.
• Mounting Pattern: Standard 4-hole fan shroud bolt pattern.
• Inner Diameter: Optimized for 12V unit clearance and fan hub alignment.
• Manufacturer Part Number: 00-8979-0.
• Brand: EMPI.

PRO TIPS

1. Check Your Fan-to-Plate Clearance

When installing a new backing plate, it is vital to check the clearance between the cooling fan and the plate itself. Before you fully torque down the alternator or generator stand, spin the fan by hand. If you hear a scraping sound, you may need to add or remove internal fan spacers (shims) to center the fan within the shroud. A rubbing fan can create excessive heat, noise, and eventually damage the backing plate or the fan blades themselves. Ensure there is a consistent gap all the way around for optimal performance.

2. Don''t Forget the Rubber Seal

The backing plate works in conjunction with a specialized rubber seal that sits between the plate and the fan shroud. Many builders forget this seal or reuse a dry-rotted original. To maximize your engine''s cooling efficiency, always use a fresh rubber backing plate seal. This prevents "air wash" where pressurized air leaks out of the back of the shroud instead of being forced down over the oil cooler and cylinder fins. A small investment in a new seal makes a massive difference in head temperatures.

3. Use Blue Loctite on Mounting Screws

The four small screws that hold the backing plate to the fan shroud are notorious for vibrating loose over time due to the high-frequency vibrations of the air-cooled flat-four engine. When installing this EMPI plate, apply a single drop of blue (medium-strength) thread locker to each of the four screws. This ensures they stay snug without over-tightening, which can strip the thin sheet metal of the fan shroud. Keeping these tight ensures your charging system remains stable and your cooling air stays trapped inside the shroud.