Replacement Oil Sump Filter, Fits Our Extra Capacity Sumps

OVERVIEW

When you''re pushing your air-cooled Volkswagen to the limit, whether it''s a high-revving street machine or a rugged off-road rail, maintaining oil pressure and purity is the absolute foundation of engine longevity. This EMPI Replacement Oil Sump Filter is specifically engineered to serve as the primary line of defense for engines equipped with extra-capacity deep sumps. Standard stock oil screens simply won''t cut it when you''ve moved to a high-volume setup. This filter is designed to bridge the gap between your extended oil pickup tube and the bottom of your deep sump, ensuring that every drop of oil being sucked into your pump is free from the heavy particulates and debris that can cause catastrophic internal scoring. By providing a larger surface area for filtration, it allows for maximum flow even under high-demand scenarios, preventing the cavitation issues that often plague poorly maintained performance engines.

As a master air-cooled specialist, I cannot stress enough the importance of inspecting and replacing this filter during every major service interval. While many builders attempt to simply "wash out" an old screen, the fine mesh can become fatigued over time or trap microscopic contaminants that a simple solvent bath won''t reach. This replacement unit is the exact factory-spec component for the popular 1.5-quart and 3.5-quart EMPI extra capacity sumps. It features a precision-stamped metal frame and a high-flow mesh screen that provides the perfect balance between filtration and flow velocity. If you''ve invested hundreds or thousands of dollars into a performance build with a deep sump, don''t gamble your engine''s life on a clogged or distorted old screen. Installing a fresh EMPI 17-2874-0 ensures that your oiling system remains as robust as the day you built it, providing peace of mind every time you glance at your oil pressure gauge.

FITMENT

This replacement oil sump filter is designed specifically for use with aftermarket extra-capacity deep sumps on the following air-cooled Volkswagen applications:

• VW Type 1 Beetle: 1954 through 1979 (Sedan and Convertible)
• VW Type 2 Bus/Transporter: 1954 through 1971 (1200cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc engines)
• VW Type 3 Fastback, Squareback, Notchback: 1961 through 1973
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• VW Super Beetle: 1971 through 1979
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: Sand rails, Dune Buggies, and Trikes utilizing Type 1 upright engine configurations
• Specific Sump Compatibility: Fits EMPI Deep Sump Part Numbers 17-2871-0 (1.5 Quart) and 17-2872-0 (3.5 Quart)

SPECS

Every technical detail of this filter is optimized for high-performance air-cooled oiling systems:

• Part Number: 17-2874-0
• Material: High-grade corrosion-resistant steel mesh with a reinforced stamped metal frame
• Filtration Type: High-flow screen mesh designed for primary particulate capture
• Configuration: Designed for use with extended oil pickup tubes
• Outer Diameter: Precision matched for EMPI deep sump plates
• Inner Opening: Sized for standard VW oil pickup tube diameters with extension
• Installation Requirement: Requires standard oil sump gaskets for a leak-free seal (sold separately)
• Finish: Natural metallic finish for maximum oil compatibility and chemical resistance

PRO TIPS

Pro Tip 1: Ensure Perfect Pickup Tube Alignment. When installing this filter into your deep sump, it is critical to verify that your oil pickup tube extension is seated correctly within the center of the filter mesh. If the extension is tilted or not fully engaged, it can create a gap where unfiltered oilor worse, aircan be sucked into the oil pump. I always recommend a "dry fit" of the sump plate and filter before applying any sealant or gaskets to ensure the pickup tube isn''t bottoming out against the screen, which could restrict oil flow during high-RPM operation.

Pro Tip 2: Use the "Reading the Screen" Technique. Every time you remove this filter for a replacement, treat it like a diagnostic tool. Spread the mesh slightly and look for "glitter" or metallic flakes. A few tiny specks of aluminum are normal during a break-in period, but finding bronze or magnetic steel flakes is an early warning sign of bearing or cam wear. By replacing this filter regularly rather than just cleaning it, you get a fresh, clean slate to monitor your engine''s internal health at every oil change.

Pro Tip 3: Don''t Over-Tighten the Sump Nuts. When buttoning up your deep sump with this new filter, remember that you are sealing against a large surface area. Use a high-quality gasket set and a tiny bead of non-hardening sealant if necessary. Torque the small 10mm nuts in a cross-pattern to roughly 5-7 foot-pounds. Over-tightening doesn''t stop leaks; it only warps the sump plate and the filter frame, which can lead to oil starvation or persistent drips. A flat, clean surface and a fresh EMPI filter are all you need for a professional-grade seal.