Oil Pump Cover, Steel with Full Flow Outlet Hole for VW

OVERVIEW

Upgrade your air-cooled engine''s lubrication system with the heavy-duty EMPI Cast Steel Oil Pump Cover, specifically engineered for high-performance full-flow oiling systems. In the world of vintage Volkswagens, maintaining consistent oil pressure and superior filtration is the single most important factor in extending engine life. This robust steel cover replaces your flimsy stock plate, allowing you to bypass the restrictive internal oil galleries and reroute oil through an external filter and cooler. By utilizing a full-flow setup, you ensure that 100% of the oil leaving the pump is cleaned by a modern spin-on filter before it ever reaches your expensive bearings or lifters. Unlike standard aluminum covers that can flex or warp under the high-pressure conditions found in performance builds, this cast steel unit provides a rigid, leak-free seal that stands up to the rigors of both daily driving and off-road abuse.

Precision is everything when it comes to your VW''s oiling circuit, and EMPI has delivered a component that meets those demands. This cover is pre-tapped to accept a high-volume outlet fitting, making it the essential foundation for any "Full-Flow" modification. The increased thickness of the cast steel construction prevents the "bowing" effect often seen in stamped steel or thin cast plates, ensuring that your oil pump gears maintain the tight tolerances required to generate maximum PSI. Whether you are building a high-revving 2276cc street engine or a reliable stock 1600cc daily driver, this cover offers the peace of mind that comes with professional-grade hardware. It comes complete with the necessary outlet fitting and a high-quality gasket, making it a straightforward upgrade for any enthusiast looking to protect their investment from the heat and contaminants that plague air-cooled powerplants.

FITMENT

This oil pump cover is designed for Volkswagen Type 1, 2, and 3 engines equipped with oil pumps utilizing 8mm mounting studs. Please verify your stud size before ordering, as early cases may use 6mm studs.

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle/Bug: 1971 through 1979 (and earlier models converted to 8mm pump studs).
• Volkswagen Type 1 Karmann Ghia: 1971 through 1974.
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus/Transporter: 1971 (1600cc Dual Port models).
• Volkswagen Type 3 Squareback, Fastback, Notchback: 1971 through 1973.
• Custom Applications: Fits most aftermarket high-capacity oil pumps (26mm or 30mm) designed for 8mm stud patterns.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All models utilizing VW-based air-cooled engines with 8mm oil pump studs.

SPECS

The following technical specifications ensure compatibility and performance for your engine build:

• Material: Heavy-duty Cast Steel for maximum rigidity and heat resistance.
• Stud Compatibility: Fits standard 8mm oil pump studs.
• Outlet Port Thread: Tapped for 1/4'' NPT (National Pipe Thread) fittings.
• Included Hardware: One (1) 1/4'' NPT to 3/8'' Barb or Flare fitting (style may vary by batch).
• Sealing Component: Includes one (1) high-density oil pump cover gasket.
• Finish: Natural cast finish with precision-machined mating surface.
• Application: Designed for "Full Flow" external oiling systems only.
• Part Number: EMPI 31-2940-0.

PRO TIPS

1. Checking Mating Surface Flatness

Before installing the EMPI steel cover, always check the mating surface of your oil pump body for any nicks or old gasket material. While this steel cover is incredibly rigid, it cannot compensate for a damaged or uneven pump face. I recommend using a very thin smear of high-quality thread sealant on the NPT fitting that screws into the cover. Be extremely careful not to let any sealant enter the oil passage itself, as even a small glob can travel through the engine and clog a critical oil galley or bearing journal. A clean, debris-free installation is the difference between a reliable engine and a catastrophic failure.

2. Stud Length and Clearance

When switching from a thin stock plate to this heavy-duty cast steel cover, you must verify that your oil pump studs are long enough to provide full thread engagement for the nuts. Conversely, if you are using an aftermarket high-capacity pump, ensure the studs do not bottom out or interfere with the engine tin or pulley. If your studs are too short, you will need to replace them with longer 8mm chromoly versions. Always use a torque wrench to tighten the four mounting nuts to the factory specification (usually 14 ft-lbs for 8mm studs). Over-tightening can strip the threads out of the engine case, which is a costly and time-consuming mistake to fix.

3. Routing Your Full Flow Lines

The outlet on this cover is the high-pressure side of the system. When routing your oil lines from the pump cover to your external filter or cooler, ensure you use high-pressure, oil-resistant braided stainless steel or reinforced rubber hoses. Avoid sharp bends or proximity to exhaust heat exchangers, as excessive heat can degrade the hoses over time. Use zip ties or cushioned clamps to secure the lines so they don''t rub against the chassis or engine tin. Remember, a full-flow system means that if a hose fails, your engine will lose all oil pressure in seconds. Investing in high-quality hose ends and checking your connections periodically is cheap insurance for your air-cooled VW.