Exhaust Gaskets, 1-1/2 Copper, 4 Pack

EMPI Exhaust Gaskets, 1-1/2 Inch Copper, 4 Pack

Every seasoned air-cooled VW enthusiast knows the frustration of a blown exhaust gasket. The distinctive ticking sound of an exhaust leak is not just an annoyance; it represents a loss in engine efficiency and potential damage to your cylinder head exhaust ports. Standard composite or paper-style gaskets often fail under the extreme heat cycles and vibration inherent in a flat-four engine, especially when running performance headers. These EMPI Solid Copper Exhaust Gaskets are engineered to end that cycle forever. By utilizing the unique properties of high-grade copper, these gaskets provide a superior, positive seal that conforms to the minor irregularities found on both the cylinder head and the exhaust flange. Unlike traditional gaskets that crush once and must be discarded, these copper units are designed for longevity and repeated use, making them a staple for any serious garage or race trailer.

The 1-1/2 inch sizing is specifically tailored for performance exhaust systems and merged headers that require a larger internal diameter than stock equipment. When you are pushing high volumes of air through a performance build, any restriction or turbulence caused by a poorly fitting gasket can hinder your horsepower gains. These copper gaskets ensure a smooth transition from the head to the primary tube. Furthermore, copper is an excellent thermal conductor, helping to distribute heat more evenly across the flange surface, which can reduce the risk of flange warping over time. Whether you are building a high-revving street Beetle, a rugged off-road Baja, or a weekend drag racer, this 4-pack of gaskets offers the reliability and professional-grade sealing that your air-cooled powerplant deserves. Don''t settle for temporary fixes when you can install a permanent sealing solution that stands up to the rigors of the road.

Vehicle and Header Fitment

• VW Type 1 Beetle / Bug: 1950 through 1979 (With 1-1/2 inch performance headers)
• VW Type 1 Super Beetle: 1971 through 1979
• VW Type 2 Bus / Transporter / Kombi: 1950 through 1971 (With 1600cc based engines)
• VW Type 3 Fastback, Squareback, Notchback: 1961 through 1973
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• VW Thing: 1973 through 1974
• Dune Buggies and Sand Rails: All models utilizing Type 1 based air-cooled engines and 1.5-inch exhaust flanges.
• Custom Applications: Fits most 2-bolt exhaust flanges designed for 1-1/2 inch (38mm) tubing.

Technical Specifications

• Material: 100% Solid Performance Grade Copper
• Inside Diameter: 1.50 Inches (Approximately 38mm)
• Configuration: 2-Bolt Flange Pattern
• Quantity: 4 Pieces (Complete set for one dual-port engine)
• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 17-2820-0
• Reusability: Fully reusable when properly maintained and annealed
• Compatibility: Designed for merged headers and performance exhaust systems

Pro Tips from the Appletree Garage

Pro Tip 1: The Secret of Annealing for Reuse. One of the greatest advantages of solid copper gaskets is that they are reusable, but you shouldn''t just slap them back on after a teardown. Over time, copper "work-hardens" due to heat and pressure. To restore the gasket to its original soft, sealing state, you should perform a process called annealing. Simply heat the gaskets with a propane torch until they glow a dull cherry red, then immediately quench them in a bucket of cold water. This resets the molecular structure of the copper, making it soft and pliable again so it can crush and seal perfectly against the flange once more.

Pro Tip 2: Surface Preparation is Paramount. Even the best copper gasket cannot seal a flange that is warped or covered in old debris. Before installation, use a flat sanding block or a fine file to check the flatness of your exhaust header flanges. If you see high spots, sand them down until the surface is uniform. Ensure the cylinder head exhaust studs are clean and the threads are in good condition. Applying a very thin film of high-temp anti-seize to the studs will ensure that you can achieve accurate torque readings and make future disassembly much easier without snapping a stud off in the head.

Pro Tip 3: The Heat Cycle Torque Technique. Copper is more malleable than steel or composite materials, which is why it seals so well. However, this means it may settle slightly after the first few miles of driving. For the ultimate seal, install the gaskets and torque your 13mm brass nuts to the factory specification. Start the engine and let it reach full operating temperature, then shut it down and let it cool completely. Once the engine is cold, go back and "re-snug" the nuts. You will often find they have loosened slightly as the copper seated into the imperfections of the metal. Doing this once will virtually guarantee a leak-free exhaust for the life of the engine.