Fuel Pump Gasket, Bottom for Stock VW Aircooled Fuel Pumps

OVERVIEW

In the world of air-cooled Volkswagens, maintaining a leak-free engine is a constant battle against time, heat, and vibration. The bottom fuel pump gasket is a critical, yet often overlooked, component in your engine''s sealing system. Positioned precisely between the engine case and the plastic fuel pump flange (also known as the pedestal or spacer block), this gasket ensures that crankcase pressure and vital engine oil remain exactly where they belong. Over time, heat cycles cause original gaskets to become brittle, leading to the dreaded "mystery leak" that pools oil around the base of the fuel pump. This EMPI replacement gasket is engineered to factory specifications to provide a robust seal that withstands the demanding environment of a horizontally opposed boxer engine.

Whether you are performing a routine fuel pump replacement or a full engine rebuild, using a fresh bottom gasket is non-negotiable for professional results. This gasket is designed specifically for stock-style fuel pumps and ensures the proper spacing and sealing required for the fuel pump pushrod to operate with precision. At Appletree Automotive, we understand that even the smallest part can make the difference between a clean garage floor and a greasy mess. That is why we recommend keeping several of these in your toolbox; because this gasket sits at the very bottom of the fuel pump assembly, it is the first line of defense against oil weeping from the crankcase. Don''t risk a vacuum leak or an oil mess by reusing an old, compressed gasket when a high-quality EMPI replacement is just a click away.

FITMENT

This gasket is designed for stock-style fuel pump pedestals on the following air-cooled Volkswagen models:

• VW Beetle (Type 1): 1961 through 1974 (1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc engines)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1961 through 1974
• VW Bus (Type 2): 1960 through 1971
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974
• VW Squareback, Fastback, Notchback (Type 3): 1961 through 1973
• Custom Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Any 1200cc to 1600cc based upright engine utilizing a stock fuel pump pedestal

SPECS

Precision manufactured to meet or exceed original equipment standards, this gasket features the following technical specifications:

• Part Number: 113-127-311 (EMPI Equivalent)
• Material: High-compression oil-resistant fiber/paper composite
• Placement: Bottom (Case to Fuel Pump Flange/Pedestal)
• Quantity: Sold Each
• Engine Compatibility: Fits 1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc Upright Engines
• Application: Mechanical Fuel Pump Systems
• Color: Standard Tan/Grey Gasket Material

PRO TIPS

1. Surface Preparation is Key

Before installing your new gasket, it is imperative that both the engine case surface and the bottom of the plastic fuel pump flange are perfectly clean and flat. Use a plastic scraper or a mild solvent to remove any remnants of the old, baked-on gasket material. Be extremely careful not to drop any debris into the fuel pump pushrod hole, as this leads directly into the crankcase. If the plastic flange shows signs of warping or deep scoring, it should be replaced along with the gasket to ensure a true, airtight seal.

2. Understand the "Gasket Sandwich"

Remember that a stock VW fuel pump setup requires TWO gaskets. This specific gasket (113-127-311) is the "Bottom" gasket that goes between the engine case and the plastic flange. You will also need a "Top" gasket (113-127-311D) which sits between the plastic flange and the fuel pump itself. Mixing these up or omitting one can lead to oil leaks or, more critically, incorrect fuel pump pushrod travel, which can cause the pump to fail or the pushrod to bind and damage your internal engine components.

3. Proper Torque and Sealant Usage

When tightening the 13mm nuts on the fuel pump studs, do not over-tighten them. Excessive force can crack the plastic fuel pump flange or strip the studs out of the magnesium engine case. While many builders install these gaskets "dry," a very thin smear of a high-quality non-hardening sealant (like Permatex Aviation or Curil-T) can help fill in any minor imperfections in the engine case casting. Always double-check that the fuel pump pushrod is properly greased with a high-temperature wheel bearing grease before final assembly to prevent premature wear on the eccentric cam lobe.