Gtv-2 Cylinder Head, 94mm with Dual Springs

OVERVIEW

When you are building a high-performance air-cooled engine, the cylinder heads are arguably the most critical component for unlocking true horsepower. The EMPI GTV-2 Cylinder Head is engineered for the serious VW enthusiast who demands more than just a stock replacement. These heads are cast from a high-quality, special aluminum alloy using permanent mold casting, ensuring a dense, strong structure that can withstand the thermal stresses of high-compression and high-RPM environments. Unlike standard heads that can crack under pressure, the GTV-2 features "beefed up" intake and exhaust ports with additional material specifically added to the combustion chamber. This extra meat allows for deep fly cutting and aggressive porting without compromising the structural integrity of the casting, making it the ultimate foundation for engines ranging from 1914cc up to 2332cc builds.

The GTV-2 isn''t just about durability; it''s about massive airflow and superior cooling. The intake and exhaust ports are 20% larger than stock right out of the box, providing a significant boost in volumetric efficiency. To handle the increased lift of performance camshafts, these heads come pre-assembled with 40mm intake and 35.5mm exhaust stainless steel valves, supported by dual high-rev springs, chromoly retainers, and hardened keepers. We have ensured that the exhaust air passages remain clear for proper cooling, preventing the heat soak issues common in lesser performance heads. Whether you are building a weekend street warrior, a dedicated drag racer, or a high-torque off-road beast, the GTV-2 provides the competition valve grind and 94mm bore capacity needed to dominate the road or the dirt.

FITMENT

This cylinder head is designed for Type 1 based dual-port engines utilizing 94mm piston and cylinder kits. Common fitments include:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1966-1977 (Sedan and Convertible)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1966-1974
• Volkswagen Bus / Type 2: 1963-1971 (With Type 1 based 1600cc-based engine case)
• Volkswagen Thing / Type 181: 1973-1974
• Custom Applications: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes using VW Type 1 engines
• Engine Sizes: Optimized for 1914cc, 2110cc, 2276cc, and 2332cc performance builds

SPECS

• Bore Size: 94mm (Large Bore)
• Intake Valve: 40mm Stainless Steel
• Exhaust Valve: 35.5mm Stainless Steel
• Valve Springs: Dual High-Rev Performance Springs
• Retainers: Heavy Duty Chromoly
• Keepers: Hardened Steel
• Spark Plug Reach: 12mm with 3/4 inch Reach (Long Reach)
• Casting Material: High-Quality Special Aluminum Alloy
• Port Design: Dual Port, 20% larger than stock
• Valve Grind: Competition Multi-Angle Valve Job
• Cooling: Clear-path exhaust air passages for maximum thermal dissipation

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Spark Plug Selection is Critical

One of the most common mistakes builders make with the GTV-2 heads is attempting to use standard 14mm short-reach spark plugs. These heads are specifically designed for 12mm 3/4-inch long-reach plugs (such as the NGK D8EA or equivalent). Using the wrong plug will not only result in poor combustion and potential thread damage but can also lead to catastrophic engine failure if the plug interferes with the piston at Top Dead Center. Always hand-thread your plugs first to ensure the 12mm threads are clean and clear before torquing them to the manufacturer''s specifications.

2. Check Your Rocker Geometry and Pushrod Length

Because the GTV-2 is a performance head often used with high-lift cams and dual springs, your stock pushrods will likely not be the correct length. When installing these heads, you must use an adjustable pushrod to find the correct geometry that keeps the rocker arm tip centered on the valve stem throughout the entire lift cycle. Additionally, because these heads feature dual springs, we highly recommend upgrading to heavy-duty chromoly pushrods. Stock aluminum pushrods can flex or even fail under the increased pressure of dual high-rev springs, especially at high RPMs.

3. Port Matching for Maximum Gains

While the GTV-2 heads come with ports that are 20% larger than stock, you can further enhance your engine''s performance by port-matching your intake manifolds. Take a gasket and align it with the intake port on the head, then use a marker to trace the opening onto your intake manifold. By grinding the manifold to match the head exactly, you eliminate the "step" that causes turbulence in the intake charge. This simple step ensures a smooth, high-velocity transition of the air-fuel mixture, which is essential for maximizing the flow potential of the 40mm intake valves.