Engine Bolt, Top Left, 10mm Thead, 110mm Long, Sold Each

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the structural integrity of your air-cooled Volkswagen, the hardware securing the engine to the transaxle is arguably the most critical component in your drivetrain. This premium engine mounting bolt is designed specifically for the top-left (driver''s side) position, providing the necessary clamping force to ensure your engine remains perfectly aligned with the transmission bellhousing. At 110mm in length with a 10mm diameter and a 1.5 thread pitch, this bolt is manufactured to meet or exceed original German specifications. Using inferior, non-automotive grade hardware from a local hardware store can lead to catastrophic failure, including bellhousing flex, input shaft misalignment, or even a cracked engine case. Whether you are performing a routine engine pull or a complete ground-up restoration, replacing your aged, stretched, or corroded mounting hardware is an essential step in maintaining a reliable and safe VW.

The versatility of this bolt makes it a staple for any VW enthusiast''s toolbox. On later "doghouse" style engines (typically 1971 and newer with the offset oil cooler), this bolt threads directly into the engine case from the transmission side, providing a clean and secure mounting solution. For earlier non-doghouse models, this bolt passes through the case and requires a nut on the engine side to provide the necessary tension. Because this bolt is located in a high-vibration area and is subject to significant thermal cycling, the high-strength steel construction is vital for preventing the bolt from backing out or shearing under load. Sold individually, this bolt is the professional''s choice for securing Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 powertrains, ensuring that your Beetle, Bus, or Ghia remains on the road for years to come.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle: 1950 through 1979 (All Air-cooled Models)
• VW Super Beetle: 1971 through 1979
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• VW Bus (Type 2): 1950 through 1971 (Upright Engines)
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1962 through 1973
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All models utilizing a VW Type 1 Transaxle

SPECS

• OEM Part Number: N105001
• Thread Diameter: 10mm
• Thread Pitch: 1.5 (Standard Coarse)
• Overall Length: 110mm
• Mounting Location: Top Left (Driver''s Side) Bellhousing
• Material: High-Strength Automotive Grade Steel
• Finish: Corrosion-resistant Zinc Coating
• Quantity: Sold Individually

PRO TIPS

1. Always Use Anti-Seize on Case Threads

Since this bolt often threads directly into the magnesium or aluminum engine case on doghouse models, it is highly susceptible to galvanic corrosion. This chemical reaction between dissimilar metals can cause the bolt to seize permanently, leading to stripped threads the next time you try to pull the engine. Always apply a thin layer of high-quality silver or copper anti-seize to the threads before installation. This ensures a smooth removal in the future and protects the soft threads of your engine case from being torn out during maintenance.

2. Proper Torque and Tightening Sequence

A common mistake is over-tightening the engine-to-transmission bolts, which can warp the bellhousing or pull the threads right out of the case. For a standard 10mm mounting bolt, the factory recommended torque is approximately 22 to 25 foot-pounds. When installing the engine, start all four mounting points by hand first to ensure no cross-threading occurs. Once all are hand-tight, tighten them in a diagonal "X" pattern to ensure the engine seats flush against the transaxle, preventing any air gaps that could lead to clutch chatter or starter engagement issues.

3. Inspect the "D" Shaped Bolt Head Clearance

While this bolt is a standard 10mm diameter, the clearance behind the fan shroud and the oil cooler can be very tight on the top left side. Before fully mating the engine to the transmission, double-check that your fan shroud is properly seated and that the bolt has a clear path to the mounting hole. If you are working on an early non-doghouse engine, ensure that you have the correct 10mm nut and washer ready on the engine side, as reaching back there once the engine is halfway in can be a frustrating challenge. Always replace the bolt if you notice any "necking" (thinning of the bolt shank), which is a sign that the hardware has been stretched beyond its elastic limit.