Main Jet DGV, DFV, ICT EPC 160

OVERVIEW

In the high-stakes world of air-cooled Volkswagen performance, precision fuel metering is the absolute foundation of a healthy, high-revving engine. The EMPI Main Jet for DGV, DFV, ICT, and EPC carburetors is a critical component for any enthusiast looking to dial in their air-fuel mixture for maximum power and efficiency. Whether you are running a classic Weber 32/36 DGV progressive setup or a dual EMPI 34 EPC kit on your dual-port 1600cc, the main jet is responsible for controlling the fuel flow during the high-speed circuit. A size 160 jet provides a specific orifice diameter designed to deliver the exact volume of fuel needed to match your engine''s airflow, preventing the dangerous lean conditions that lead to overheating and catastrophic piston failure in air-cooled environments.

Crafted with the legendary attention to detail that EMPI is known for, these jets are precision-machined from high-quality brass to ensure consistent flow rates across every unit. Tuning a vintage VW isn''t just about bolted-on parts; it''s about the synergy between components. This 160 main jet is often the "sweet spot" for modified 1600cc to 1776cc engines operating at lower altitudes or in performance applications where a slightly richer mixture is required to keep head temperatures in check. When you choose genuine EMPI components from Appletree Automotive, you are investing in the longevity of your Type 1, Type 2, or Type 3 engine, ensuring that your classic stays on the road and out of the machine shop.

FITMENT

This main jet is designed for use with a wide variety of popular carburetor models found on air-cooled Volkswagens and other vintage applications, including:

• Weber Carburetors: 32/36 DGV, 32/36 DGAV, 32/36 DGEV, 38 DGAS, 34 ICT, and 34 ICH series.
• EMPI Carburetors: 34 EPC series (Single or Dual Kits).
• Holley/Weber: 5200 series and other licensed DFV-style derivatives.
• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle, Karmann Ghia, and Thing (1954-1979) equipped with aftermarket Weber or EMPI carburetors.
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus, Transporter, and Kombi (1950-1971) utilizing DGV or ICT upgrades.
• Volkswagen Type 3: Squareback, Fastback, and Notchback (1961-1973) with dual ICT or EPC setups.
• Sand Rails and Dune Buggies: All custom builds utilizing the aforementioned carburetor platforms.

SPECS

• Jet Orifice Size: 1.60mm (Stamped 160).
• Material: Precision-Machined High-Grade Brass.
• Thread Type: Standard Weber Main Jet Threading.
• Compatible Fuel Types: Gasoline, E10 (Ethanol Blends), and Racing Fuels.
• Manufacturer: EMPI.
• Part Number: 73801.160.
• Pack Quantity: Sold Individually (1 Jet).
• Function: Primary fuel metering for the high-speed/main circuit.

PRO TIPS

1. Understand the Relationship Between Altitude and Jetting

As a master VW tech, I cannot stress enough how much altitude affects your jetting requirements. If you are driving at sea level, your air is denser and requires a larger main jet, like this 160, to maintain the correct stoichiometric ratio. However, if you are taking your Beetle up into the Rockies or high-altitude desert regions, the air becomes thinner. A jet that runs perfectly at the beach will run "rich" in the mountains, potentially fouling plugs and wasting fuel. Always keep a selection of jets in your toolbox so you can lean out the mixture by dropping a few jet sizes when heading into higher elevations.

2. Use the Right Tools to Prevent Damage

Brass is a soft metal, and the slot on a main jet can be easily deformed if you use a screwdriver that is too small or too sharp. I always recommend using a hollow-ground cabinet-tip screwdriver that fits the slot perfectly from edge to edge. If you burr the edges of the jet orifice or the slot, you can actually create turbulence in the fuel flow, which effectively changes the jetting characteristics regardless of the hole size. If a jet is stuck, don''t force it; use a bit of penetrating oil and the correct tool to ensure you don''t snap the head off inside the carburetor body.

3. Verify Your Tuning with a Plug Read or Wideband O2

Don''t just "set it and forget it." After installing a new 160 main jet, take the car for a "plug chop" run. Drive the car at a steady cruising speed in 3rd or 4th gear (where the main circuit is fully active), then safely cut the ignition and coast to a stop. Pull your spark plugs and look at the porcelain color. You are looking for a light tan or "coffee with cream" color. If it''s white, you''re too lean; if it''s black and sooty, you''re too rich. For the ultimate precision, install a wideband O2 sensor in your exhaust to monitor your air-fuel ratio in real-time while you drive, ensuring your 160 jet is providing the perfect 12.5:1 to 13.2:1 ratio under load.