Heater Hose Connector Pipe, For Beetle 63-74 Bus 63-71 Each

OVERVIEW

When you are restoring or maintaining the heating system in your vintage air-cooled Volkswagen, the smallest components often make the biggest difference in cabin comfort. This EMPI Heater Hose Connector Pipe is a faithful reproduction of the original factory part, designed to bridge the critical gap between your fan shroud''s flexible heater hoses and the heater box or muffler assembly. Over decades of service, original connector pipes frequently succumb to road salt, moisture, and extreme engine bay heat, leading to heavy corrosion or complete disintegration. Without a solid, airtight connection at this juncture, your VW''s cooling fan cannot efficiently push warm air into the cabin, leaving you with a lukewarm heater and poor defrosting capabilities during those chilly morning drives. This zinc-plated steel pipe ensures that every cubic foot of heated air is directed exactly where it needs to go, restoring the functional integrity of your Type 1 or Type 2 heating circuit.

At Appletree Auto, we know that fitment and durability are paramount for VW enthusiasts who actually drive their cars. These connector pipes feature a high-quality zinc coating that provides superior resistance to rust and oxidation compared to bare steel alternatives. The precise diameter ensures a snug fit into the heater box inlet, preventing the annoying rattles and air leaks that plague substandard exhaust and heating components. Whether you are performing a concourse-level restoration on a 1963 Split Window Bus or simply trying to get the heater working again in your 1974 Beetle, these pipes provide the OEM-style solution you need. Sold individually, these pipes are a cost-effective way to ensure your air-cooled engine''s heating system operates at peak efficiency, keeping you warm while maintaining the stock aesthetic of your engine bay.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle (Type 1): 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• Volkswagen Bus (Type 2): 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967 (Split Window Models)
• Volkswagen Bus (Type 2): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971 (Early Bay Window Models)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973, 1974

SPECS

• Part Number: 98-1004-B
• OEM Reference Number: 113-255-165
• Material: Heavy-duty Steel
• Finish: Corrosion-resistant Zinc Plating
• Application: Connects Fan Shroud Hose to Heater Box/Muffler
• Inside Diameter: Optimized for standard 50mm flexible heater ducting
• Quantity: Sold individually (Most vehicles require two for a complete system)

PRO TIPS

1. Ensure a Perfect Seal for Maximum Heat

Even with a new connector pipe, air leaks can occur at the junction where the flexible hose meets the metal. To maximize the heat reaching your cabin, we recommend using a high-quality stainless steel hose clamp to secure the flexible paper or aluminum ducting to this pipe. If you find the fit is slightly loose due to aftermarket heater box tolerances, a small bead of high-temperature RTV silicone around the base of the pipe before insertion can create a gasket-like seal that prevents heat loss and stops the pipe from vibrating loose over time.

2. Inspect Your Flexible Hoses Simultaneously

If your old connector pipes are rusted out, there is a very high probability that your flexible heater hoses (the ones running from the fan shroud) are also cracked, brittle, or clogged with debris. When installing these new EMPI connector pipes, take the time to inspect the entire run of ducting. Replacing old, leaky hoses at the same time as the connector pipes will significantly improve the air pressure in your defrost vents, making a world of difference in visibility during damp or cold weather conditions.

3. Prevent Future Corrosion with Anti-Seize

Because these pipes sit in a high-heat area and are exposed to road spray, they can sometimes "weld" themselves into the heater box inlet over several years. To make future maintenance easier, apply a very thin layer of copper-based anti-seize to the portion of the pipe that slides into the heater box or muffler. This won''t affect the heating performance, but it will ensure that if you ever need to remove the engine or replace the exhaust, these connector pipes will slide out easily without requiring a torch or heavy prying, protecting your expensive heater boxes from damage.