Fuel Line Tee, for 1/4 Line Size, Sold Each

OVERVIEW

When you are building a high-performance air-cooled engine, the fuel delivery system is the heartbeat of your machine. This EMPI Fuel Line Tee is a critical component for anyone running a dual-carburetor setup, specifically designed to handle the rigors of the Volkswagen engine bay. Unlike cheap plastic alternatives that can become brittle and crack under the intense heat of an air-cooled engine, this tee is constructed from solid brass. This ensures a leak-free connection that can withstand the vibrations and thermal cycling common in Beetles, Buses, and Dune Buggies. Whether you are installing a set of dual Solex carburetors or a custom Weber configuration, this 1/4-inch tee provides the reliable distribution you need to keep your fuel pressure consistent across both banks of cylinders. It is the same high-quality fitting found in EMPI''s legendary dual Solex kits, making it a proven choice for enthusiasts who demand longevity and safety.

Precision is everything when it comes to fuel plumbing. A failure in a fuel line fitting isn''t just a breakdown; it''s a major safety hazard in an engine bay where heat and sparks are always present. By choosing this brass fuel tee, you are investing in peace of mind. The barbed ends are specifically machined to "bite" into 1/4-inch fuel lines, creating a mechanical seal that, when paired with the proper clamps, prevents high-pressure blow-offs. This fitting is versatile enough for street builds, off-road rails, and show-quality restorations. Because it is made of corrosion-resistant brass, it will not succumb to the additives found in modern ethanol-blended pump gases, ensuring that your fuel system remains clean and free of debris for years to come. Don''t let a five-dollar plastic part be the weak link in your thousand-dollar engine build; upgrade to the professional standard with this EMPI brass fuel tee.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle (Standard & Super): 1950-1979
• Volkswagen Bus / Transporter (Type 2): 1950-1979
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1955-1974
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961-1973
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973-1974
• Custom Applications: Ideal for all VW-based Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes.
• Carburetor Compatibility: Specifically designed for EMPI Dual Solex kits, but works with any 1/4-inch (6mm) fuel system.

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 43-4402-0
• Material: Heavy-Duty Solid Brass
• Fitting Size: 1/4 Inch (6mm) Barbed
• Configuration: 3-Way T-Shape
• Finish: Natural Brass
• Fuel Compatibility: Gasoline, E10, E15, and High-Octane Racing Fuels
• Quantity: Sold Individually

PRO TIPS

1. Always Use High-Quality Fuel Injection Clamps

While standard worm-gear clamps are common, we highly recommend using fuel injection style "rolled edge" clamps with this brass tee. Standard worm clamps have slots that can "cheese-grater" your fuel line as you tighten them, leading to premature hose failure right at the barb. The rolled-edge clamps provide 360-degree even pressure without cutting into the rubber, ensuring that your 1/4-inch line stays securely mated to the brass barb even under the pressure spikes of an electric fuel pump. It''s a small investment that significantly increases the safety of your air-cooled VW.

2. Optimize Routing to Prevent Vapor Lock

When installing this tee to split fuel between dual carburetors, pay close attention to where the lines are resting. Air-cooled engines generate a massive amount of radiant heat from the cylinders and exhaust. You should route your fuel lines so that the tee is suspended in "dead air" space, away from the intake manifolds and the engine tin. If the fuel in the tee gets too hot, it can lead to vapor lock, causing your engine to stumble or stall. Secure the lines with insulated P-clamps to ensure the tee doesn''t vibrate against the shroud, which could eventually lead to metal fatigue or hose abrasion.

3. Check for "Flash" Before Installation

Even though EMPI maintains high manufacturing standards, it is a master mechanic''s habit to inspect the internal bore of any fuel fitting before installation. Take a quick look through the ports of the tee to ensure there is no leftover brass "flash" or debris from the machining process. If you see any small burrs, you can easily clear them with a small round file or a puff of compressed air. This prevents tiny metal particles from traveling downstream and clogging the delicate needle and seat or the idle jets in your carburetors. Cleanliness is the key to a smooth-idling Volkswagen!