Finned Alternator Backing Plate, Gold

EMPI Finned Alternator Backing Plate - Translucent Gold Finish

Elevate your air-cooled engine bay with a touch of classic custom styling using the EMPI Finned Alternator Backing Plate in a striking translucent gold. Designed for enthusiasts who appreciate the finer details of a "show-and-go" build, this component provides a unique visual depth that standard painted or plain steel plates simply cannot match. The finned design pays homage to vintage performance cooling elements, while the gold tint adds a warm, high-end glow to the rear of your alternator or generator. Whether you are finishing a ground-up restoration or just looking to freshen up your daily driver''s engine compartment, this backing plate cover is an affordable and impactful way to stand out at the next VW swap meet or car show.

This isn''t just about the color; it''s about the clever application of materials to achieve a custom look without the high cost of custom plating. These see-through plastic covers are engineered to fit snugly over your existing steel backing plate, acting as a decorative skin that transforms the industrial look of the charging system into a focal point of the fan shroud assembly. While they look fantastic on their own, the real magic happens when you install them over a chrome-plated backing plate. The chrome reflects light back through the translucent gold plastic, creating a brilliant, metallic gold luster that mimics expensive anodized finishes. It is a simple, bolt-on modification that requires no permanent alterations, making it a favorite among Air-Cooled VW owners who want maximum impact with minimal effort.

Vehicle Fitment and Compatibility

• VW Beetle (Standard): 1950-1977 (Models equipped with 12V alternator or generator)
• VW Super Beetle: 1971-1979
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956-1974
• VW Bus / Transporter (Type 2): 1950-1971 (Fits upright Type 1 style engines)
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1962-1973
• VW Thing: 1973-1974
• Custom Applications: Fits most Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes using a standard VW Type 1 upright cooling configuration.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-8850-0
• Material: High-impact, heat-resistant translucent plastic
• Color: Translucent Gold
• Finish: Finned / Ribbed "Cal-Look" styling
• Installation Type: Slip-over (requires existing steel backing plate)
• Weight: 0.75 lbs
• GTIN: 707924332858

Specialist Pro Tips for Installation

Pro Tip 1: Surface Preparation is Vital. Before sliding this gold finned cover over your existing metal plate, you must ensure the steel surface is surgically clean. Use a high-quality degreaser or brake cleaner to remove every trace of oil, grease, and road grime. Because this cover is translucent, any smudge or fingerprint trapped underneath will be visible once the engine is back together. A clean base ensures the gold color remains vibrant and uniform across the entire surface.

Pro Tip 2: The Chrome Reflection Trick. If you want your engine bay to truly "pop," do not install this over a rusty or black-painted plate. We highly recommend installing a new chrome-plated steel backing plate first, then placing this gold cover over it. The chrome acts as a mirror, bouncing light back through the gold plastic to create a deep, glowing metallic effect that looks like high-end anodized aluminum. It is a professional-level secret for winning local car shows on a budget.

Pro Tip 3: Check Your Clearances. When reinstalling your alternator or generator into the fan shroud with the new cover, double-check the spacing between the internal cooling fan and the backing plate assembly. Ensure the plastic cover is seated completely flush against the metal plate so it doesn''t interfere with the fan''s rotation. A properly seated cover ensures that your cooling system maintains maximum efficiency while providing that custom aesthetic you are looking for.