Engine Color Kit, Red, for Aircooled VW

Revitalize Your Engine Bay with the EMPI Red Engine Color Kit

The engine is the heart of your air-cooled Volkswagen, but it doesn''t have to look like a greasy relic of the past. If you''re looking to inject some high-energy personality into your engine bay without spending a fortune, the EMPI Red Engine Color Kit is the ultimate weekend project for any enthusiast. This kit isn''t just about simple aesthetics; it''s about a coordinated, clean look that ties the ignition system and the crankshaft pulley together into one cohesive theme. By replacing your dull, weathered components with vibrant red accents and polished finned aluminum, you transform your Beetle, Ghia, or Bus from a standard commuter into a show-ready machine. Whether you''re finishing a fresh rebuild or just want to spice up your daily driver, this kit provides that pop of color that immediately draws the eye the moment you pop the decklid at a local car show.

Beyond the striking visual appeal, this kit includes high-quality components designed to maintain the reliability of your VW''s electrical and cooling systems. The red distributor cap and copper core spark plug wires offer excellent conductivity and a secure fit, ensuring your ignition spark remains strong and consistent across all four cylinders. The addition of the finned aluminum pulley cover and backing plate provides a classic "Cal-Look" style while offering a layer of protection for your crank pulley area. These pieces are precision-engineered to fit the standard Type 1 upright engine configuration, making installation straightforward for even a novice mechanic with basic hand tools. Don''t settle for a mismatched engine bay with various colors of grimechoose a kit that harmonizes your color scheme while paying homage to the legendary heritage of the air-cooled performance scene.

Vehicle Fitment and Compatibility

This kit is designed for Volkswagen Type 1 based upright engines. Please verify your engine configuration before ordering. Fits the following models equipped with 1200cc to 1600cc based engines:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1950 through 1979 (Sedan and Convertible).
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974.
• Volkswagen Bus / Type 2: 1950 through 1971 (Upright engines only).
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All models utilizing a VW Type 1 upright engine case.
• Compatibility Note: Distributor cap is designed for standard Bosch-style distributors (including 009 and vacuum advance units).

Technical Specifications and Kit Contents

Every component in the EMPI 00-8744-0 kit is selected for durability and fitment. Here are the technical details of what is included:

• Distributor Cap: High-dielectric strength plastic construction in vibrant Red.
• Spark Plug Wires: Set of four 7mm copper-core wires with Red silicone insulation for maximum spark delivery.
• Pulley Cover: Finned cast aluminum construction with a polished finish for a custom look.
• Backing Plate: Matching finned aluminum backing plate to sit behind the crank pulley.
• Installation Hardware: Includes the necessary screws and fasteners for the pulley cover assembly.
• Wire Ends: Heavy-duty boots designed to seal against the tinware and spark plug holes to prevent cooling air loss.
• Finish: High-gloss red and polished aluminum accents.

Pro Tips from the Appletree Specialist

Tip 1: Order of Operations for Ignition Wires

When installing your new red spark plug wires, it is critical that you replace them one at a time. Even though the red wires look great, mixing up the firing order (1-4-3-2) will prevent your engine from starting or cause severe backfiring. Start with cylinder number one, swap the wire, and then move to the next. Also, ensure that the rubber boots are seated firmly over the spark plugs and into the distributor cap terminals. A loose connection here can lead to arcing, which will eventually carbon-track your brand-new red distributor cap and cause a misfire.

Tip 2: Inspect Your Crank Pulley Condition

Before installing the finned aluminum pulley cover and backing plate, take a moment to inspect your crankshaft pulley for any chips, cracks, or excessive wobbling. Since you will have the pulley area exposed, it is the perfect time to clean the oil pump cover and check for any front main seal leaks. When installing the backing plate, ensure it sits flush against the engine case and does not rub against the back of the pulley. If there is contact, it can create a localized heat spot or an annoying metallic chirping sound while the engine is idling.

Tip 3: Manage Your Wire Routing for Longevity

To keep your engine bay looking professional and to protect your new investment, use wire looms or separators to keep the red spark plug wires from resting directly on the hot engine tin or the cylinder head covers. Heat is the primary enemy of spark plug wire insulation. By keeping the wires organized and elevated, you prevent the silicone from becoming brittle over time. Additionally, ensure the wires are not touching the fan belt or any moving throttle linkages, as the vibration of an air-cooled engine can quickly chafe through the insulation, leading to a grounded spark and poor engine performance.