Generator Brush Cover, for Aircooled VW

OVERVIEW

Protecting your vintage Volkswagen''s charging system is critical for long-term reliability, and the EMPI Generator Brush Cover is the unsung hero of your engine bay. Designed specifically for the iconic Bosch GR15 and GR17 12-volt generators, this black plastic cover acts as a rugged shield against the harsh environment found under the decklid. Without a proper cover, your generator''s commutator and carbon brushes are exposed to road grime, oil vapor, and moisture, which can lead to excessive arcing, premature brush wear, and ultimately, a dead battery on the side of the road. This aftermarket solution from EMPI provides a factory-style fit that keeps the internal components of your charging system clean and dry, ensuring that your Beetle, Bus, or Ghia maintains a steady flow of amperage even in less-than-ideal driving conditions.

Constructed from high-quality, heat-resistant plastic, this brush cover is engineered to withstand the extreme temperatures generated by an air-cooled engine. Unlike older metal bands that can sometimes rattle or corrode over time, this snap-on plastic version offers a tight, secure fit that simplifies maintenance. When it comes time to inspect your brushes or clean the commutator, the cover can be removed in seconds without the need for specialized tools. It is an essential component for any restoration or daily driver, providing a finished look to your engine while performing the vital task of preventing debris from fouling the electrical contact points. Don''t let a five-dollar part be the reason your expensive generator fails; upgrade to this EMPI brush cover and give your VW''s electrical system the protection it deserves.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1967-1974 (Equipped with 12V Bosch Generator)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1967-1974 (Equipped with 12V Bosch Generator)
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter: 1967-1971 (Equipped with 12V Bosch Generator)
• Volkswagen Type 3 Squareback, Fastback, Notchback: 1967-1973
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: 1973-1974
• Custom Applications: Any sand rail, dune buggy, or trike utilizing a Bosch GR15 or GR17 12-volt generator

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-8902-0
• Material: High-density, heat-resistant black plastic
• Compatibility: Designed for 12-Volt Bosch GR15 and GR17 Generators
• Generator Diameter: Approximately 105mm (standard 12V VW generator size)
• Installation Type: Manual snap-on wrap-around design
• Finish: Semi-gloss black
• Function: Dust, moisture, and debris barrier for internal brushes and commutator

PRO TIPS

PRO TIP 1: Inspect Your Brushes During Installation. Whenever you have the brush cover off, it is the perfect time to perform a quick health check on your generator. Take a look at the length of your carbon brushes; if they are worn down to less than 1/4 inch, they should be replaced immediately. Also, check the color of the commutator (the copper segments the brushes ride on). It should be a clean, chocolate-brown color. If it looks black or burnt, use a commutator cleaning stick or very fine grit sandpaper to lightly clean the surface before snapping the new EMPI cover back into place. Keeping these surfaces clean ensures maximum electrical output and prevents "hunting" in the voltage regulator.

PRO TIP 2: Proper Orientation for Heat Management. While the cover is designed to snap on easily, you should always pay attention to the gap where the ends meet. It is best practice to position the seam of the cover toward the bottom of the generator or slightly offset to the side. This prevents any stray oil or moisture that might drip from the top of the engine bay from finding its way directly into the brush window. Additionally, ensuring a tight fit prevents the cover from vibrating against the fan shroud, which could cause unwanted noise or wear on the plastic over thousands of miles of driving.

PRO TIP 3: Clean the Mounting Surface First. Before installing your new EMPI Generator Brush Cover, take a rag dampened with a bit of degreaser and wipe down the outer circumference of the generator body. Often, old oil and belt dust accumulate in the recessed area where the cover sits. If you install the new plastic cover over a layer of grease, it may slip or fail to "lock" into the grooves properly. A clean surface ensures the plastic teeth of the cover grip the generator body firmly, providing a weather-tight seal that won''t pop off during high-RPM runs or off-road excursions in your dune buggy.