Oil Bypass Adapter, for Retaining Stock Oil Cooler

OVERVIEW

Thermal management is the lifeblood of any high-performance air-cooled Volkswagen engine, especially when you are pushing higher displacements or navigating demanding climates. Historically, VW enthusiasts faced a difficult choice: stick with the reliable factory oil cooler or remove it entirely to run a full-flow external system. The EMPI Oil Bypass Adapter eliminates this compromise by allowing you to retain your original oil cooler while simultaneously integrating an external cooler or a remote oil filter into the lubrication circuit. This "best of both worlds" approach ensures that your engine benefits from the immediate cooling of the stock unit during warm-up and low-speed driving, while the external components handle the heavy lifting during high-speed cruising or aggressive performance runs. It is an essential upgrade for anyone looking to extend engine life and maintain consistent oil temperatures without sacrificing the engineering integrity of the original cooling system.

Precision-engineered by EMPI, this adapter is designed for a robust fit on Type 1 engine cases. It mounts directly to the oil cooler stand location, effectively acting as a sandwich plate that redirects oil flow through external lines before returning it to the stock cooler. This design is particularly advantageous for street-driven Volkswagens where maintaining a balance between quick oil warm-up and maximum heat dissipation is critical. While some minor trimming of the engine tin may be required to accommodate the new lines, the resulting increase in oil capacity and cooling efficiency is well worth the effort. Whether you are building a weekend cruiser, a rugged dune buggy, or a daily driver, this adapter provides the flexibility needed to customize your oiling system for maximum reliability. It allows you to run a remote filter to keep your oil cleaner, longer, which is the cheapest insurance you can buy for your VW''s internal components.

FITMENT

This adapter is designed for specific Type 1 configurations. Please review the fitment requirements below to ensure compatibility with your engine build:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1950 through 1970 (Models with non-doghouse style coolers).
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1970.
• Volkswagen Bus / Type 2: 1950 through 1970 (1600cc upright engines).
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: Early models with upright, non-doghouse cooling.
• Engine Case Compatibility: Fits most single-relief and dual-relief Type 1 engine cases.
• Note: This unit will NOT work with the offset "Doghouse" style oil cooler setups found on 1971 and later models.

SPECS

The EMPI 17-2873-0 is built to withstand the pressures of a high-output oiling system. Technical specifications include:

• Material: High-quality cast aluminum for superior heat dissipation and weight reduction.
• Port Size: Features two 3/8-inch NPT threaded ports for easy connection to standard oil lines.
• Installation Hardware: Includes necessary mounting seals and hardware for a leak-free installation.
• Configuration: Bypass design that retains factory cooler functionality.
• Finish: Natural cast finish, resistant to corrosion and oil staining.
• Part Number: EMPI 17-2873-0.

PRO TIPS

1. Ensure a Perfect Seal at the Case

When installing the adapter, the cleanliness of the engine case surface is paramount. Before mounting, use a lint-free rag and a bit of brake cleaner to remove any old gasket material or oil residue from the oil cooler mounting boss. Use a tiny dab of high-quality engine assembly lube or a smear of fresh oil on the seals to help them seat correctly. Don''t over-torque the mounting bolts; doing so can warp the adapter plate or strip the threads in the magnesium or aluminum case. A firm, even snugness is all that is required to create a lasting, leak-proof seal.

2. Strategic Hose Routing and Protection

Routing your oil lines is just as important as the adapter itself. When running lines from the 3/8-inch NPT ports to your external cooler or filter, ensure they are kept away from the exhaust system and any moving parts like the throttle linkage or fan belt. Use cushioned P-clamps to secure the lines to the chassis or engine tin. To prevent vibration from chafing the lines where they pass through the engine sheet metal, use rubber grommets or high-temp silicone fire-sleeving. Remember, a ruptured oil line can empty your crankcase in seconds, so take the extra time to route them safely.

3. Account for the Increased Oil Capacity

By adding this bypass adapter along with an external cooler and remote filter, you are significantly increasing the total oil capacity of your engine. After the initial installation, fill the engine to the standard "full" mark on the dipstick, then start the engine and let it run for a minute to prime the new lines and filter. Shut the engine off, wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, and re-check the level. You will likely need to add an extra quart or more depending on the size of your external cooler and the length of your lines. Don''t forget to check all fittings for leaks during this initial warm-up phase!