Oil Pump Bolts, 8mm, for Aircooled VW, 4 Pack

OVERVIEW

When it comes to maintaining the heartbeat of your air-cooled engine, every component plays a critical role, and the hardware securing your oil pump is no exception. These EMPI 8mm Oil Pump Bolts are engineered to provide the exact clamping force necessary to seal your oil pump cover plate against the pump body and the engine case. Over decades of heat cycles and maintenance, original hardware often becomes stretched, rounded off, or fatigued, which can lead to micro-leaks or even a loss of oil pressure. By replacing your aged fasteners with this high-quality 4-pack, you are ensuring that your lubrication system remains pressurized and protected against the elements. Whether you are performing a routine oil pump upgrade or a complete long-block rebuild, using fresh, reliable hardware is the hallmark of a professional-grade assembly.

Precision is paramount in the Volkswagen world, especially when dealing with the transition from the early 6mm studs to the more robust 8mm configuration found in later dual-relief cases. These bolts are specifically designed for the 1500cc and 1600cc based engines, featuring a 1.25 thread pitch and a 40mm length that passes through the cover and pump deep into the case threads. EMPI has long been a staple in the VW community, and this hardware kit reflects their commitment to providing affordable yet dependable solutions for the enthusiast. Each bolt features a 10mm head, allowing for easy access and consistent torque application. Don''t risk your engine''s longevity by reusing corroded or weakened bolts; invest in the structural integrity of your oiling system with hardware designed to withstand the vibrations and thermal expansion of the classic air-cooled flat-four.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• Volkswagen Bus (Type 2): 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Notchback, Fastback): 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973, 1974
• Engine Compatibility: Fits all VW air-cooled 1500cc and 1600cc based motors with 8mm oil pump provisions.

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-9287-0
• Thread Diameter: 8mm
• Thread Pitch: 1.25mm
• Total Length: 40mm
• Head Size: 10mm Hex
• Quantity: Pack of 4 (Complete set for one oil pump)
• Material: High-tensile steel
• Finish: Zinc plated for corrosion resistance

PRO TIPS

1. Verify Your Case Thread Size Before Installation

While most 1500cc and 1600cc engines use 8mm hardware, many early "single-relief" cases or performance aftermarket cases may still utilize 6mm studs or bolts. Before you begin your teardown, it is essential to confirm that your case is tapped for 8mm fasteners. If you are converting an older case to a high-volume pump, you might need to step up to these 8mm bolts to ensure maximum clamping force. Always hand-start these bolts to ensure they are not cross-threading into the magnesium or aluminum engine case, as the soft metal of the case is easily damaged by forced installation. If you feel resistance early on, back the bolt out and clean the case threads with a chase tap and compressed air.

2. Use a Calibrated Torque Wrench and Proper Sequence

One of the most common mistakes in VW engine assembly is over-torquing the oil pump bolts, which can lead to "pulling" the threads right out of the engine case. For 8mm oil pump bolts, the standard torque specification is generally around 14 ft-lbs (approximately 20 Nm). We highly recommend using a small 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch drive torque wrench for better accuracy at these lower settings. Tighten the bolts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure the oil pump cover compresses the gaskets evenly. This prevents the cover plate from warping, which is a primary cause of "sucking air" into the oiling system, leading to flickering oil pressure lights at idle.

3. Don''t Forget the Gaskets and Sealant Strategy

When installing your oil pump with these new EMPI bolts, the quality of the seal depends heavily on the gaskets used. Use two thin paper gasketsone between the pump and the case, and one between the pump and the cover plate. Avoid using thick silicone-based RTV sealants, as excess silicone can squeeze into the oil galleries and clog your oil cooler or bearings. Instead, use a very light smear of a non-hardening sealant like Permatex Aviation Form-A-Gasket or a similar high-tack sealant on the paper gaskets. This ensures a leak-free seal while maintaining the critical tolerances required for the oil pump gears to function efficiently within the housing.