Deluxe Chrome Dress Up Kit, For Aircooled VW Engines

OVERVIEW

Transform your engine bay from a dull, grease-stained workspace into a gleaming centerpiece with the EMPI Deluxe Chrome Dress Up Kit. As any seasoned air-cooled veteran knows, the visual appeal of a Volkswagen engine is just as important as the mechanical soul beneath the tin. This comprehensive kit is the ultimate solution for enthusiasts looking to add that high-luster, show-ready finish without the hassle of sourcing individual components. Every piece in this kit has been selected to replace the most visible external hardware, ensuring that when you pop the decklid at a local meet or out on the dunes, your engine commands the attention it deserves. The brilliant chrome plating not only looks incredible but also provides a layer of protection against the elements, making it easier to wipe away road grime and oil mist during your routine detailing sessions.

Beyond the undeniable aesthetic upgrade, the EMPI Deluxe Chrome Dress Up Kit offers the convenience of a perfectly matched set of accessories designed to work in harmony. This isn''t just about vanity; it''s about giving your Volkswagen a professional, cohesive look that reflects the care you put into your ride. Whether you are finishing a ground-up restoration on a classic Beetle, prepping a Manx-style dune buggy for a weekend run, or simply tidying up the daily driver Ghia, this kit provides the essential "jewelry" your engine requires. EMPI has been a cornerstone of the VW community for decades, and this kit carries on that tradition of providing affordable, high-impact upgrades that define the air-cooled lifestyle. Don''t settle for rusty nuts and faded paint when you can have a mirror-like finish across your entire accessory drive and oil system.

FITMENT

This Deluxe Chrome Dress Up Kit is engineered for use with 12-Volt air-cooled Volkswagen Type 1 based engines. Please note that while many components are universal across the air-cooled range, the pulley and alternator/generator hardware are specifically designed for 12-volt charging systems.

• VW Beetle (Standard & Super): 1954 - 1977 (Sedan & Convertible)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 - 1974
• VW Bus / Type 2: 1954 - 1971 (Models with Type 1 upright engine configurations)
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973 - 1974
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All models utilizing a VW Type 1 1600cc based engine with a 12V alternator or generator.

SPECS

Each component in this kit is manufactured to meet or exceed original equipment specifications while featuring a premium chrome-plated finish for maximum shine and durability.

• Material: High-grade stamped steel and cast alloys with multi-stage chrome plating.
• Oil Filler: Baffled design with integrated breather tube for proper crankcase ventilation.
• Oil Cap: Stock-style twist-on design with a high-luster chrome finish.
• Distributor Clamp: Heavy-duty chrome plated steel to ensure timing stays locked in place.
• Dipstick: Chrome-plated handle and shaft, calibrated for standard oil sumps.
• Crankshaft Pulley Bolt: High-tensile steel with oversized chrome washer for a clean look at the crank.
• Main Pulley: Standard diameter 12-volt alternator/generator pulley (stamped steel).
• Alternator/Generator Nut: Two-piece specialty nut designed for easy belt adjustments and a finished appearance.
• Part Number: 00-8741-0.

PRO TIPS

1. Mastering Belt Tension with Shims

When installing the new chrome alternator/generator pulley included in this kit, it is vital to remember that belt tension is adjusted by the number of shims placed between the two pulley halves. Don''t make the mistake of leaving shims out; any shims not used between the halves to tighten the belt must be placed on the outside, under the nut, to ensure the pulley nut seats properly. A belt that is too tight will destroy your alternator bearings, while one too loose will cause overheating. Aim for about 1/2 inch of deflection at the midpoint of the belt.

2. Ensure a Leak-Free Oil Filler Installation

Installing the chrome oil filler requires the use of a specialized internal nut tool. Before you thread the new filler onto the alternator stand, ensure the surface is perfectly clean and free of old gasket material or burrs. We highly recommend using a small amount of thread sealant or a fresh gasket to prevent the common "VW oil seep" at the base. Also, make sure the breather tube is oriented correctly to clear your carburetor linkage or air cleaner assembly before you torque it down fully.

3. Maintaining the Show-Quality Shine

Chrome in an engine bay lives in a harsh environment of heat and vibration. To keep your EMPI kit looking brand new, avoid using harsh degreasers or acidic cleaners directly on the chrome surfaces, as these can dull the finish over time. Instead, wait for the engine to cool and wipe the components down with a soft microfiber cloth and a high-quality quick detailer or chrome polish. Regular maintenance prevents oil and dust from "baking" onto the chrome, ensuring your engine remains the star of the show for years to come.