Rod Bearing, Standard Size, For Type 4 2000cc

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the heart of your Volkswagen, the Type 4 2000cc engine is a legendary powerhouse known for its torque and durability in heavy-duty applications. However, even the most robust air-cooled flat-four is only as reliable as its internal components. These EMPI standard size rod bearings are engineered to provide the critical interface between your connecting rods and the crankshaft journals. In a high-heat environment like the Type 4 engine bay, maintaining proper oil clearance is paramount. These bearings are designed to handle the high-load demands of the 2.0L displacement, ensuring that your Bus or Vanagon continues to cruise the highways without the dreaded "rod knock" that signals the end of an engine''s life. Whether you are performing a preventative refresh or a complete bottom-end overhaul, these bearings offer the precision fitment required to maintain oil pressure and extend the longevity of your rotating assembly.

Precision is everything in an air-cooled rebuild, and EMPI has delivered a set of rod bearings that meet the exacting tolerances required for the 1976 through 1983 Type 4 powerplants. Because these are standard size bearings, they are intended for use with a crankshaft that is still within its original factory specifications and hasn''t been turned or ground down. Utilizing high-quality materials that offer excellent embeddability and conformability, these bearings are capable of absorbing microscopic debris while maintaining a smooth surface for the oil film to support. This set is a complete solution for all four connecting rods, providing the peace of mind that comes with knowing your engine''s "basement" is built on a foundation of quality. Don''t settle for inferior internals when the reliability of your vintage VW is on the line; choose the bearings that specialists trust for the 2000cc Type 4 engine.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus: 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979 (2000cc Type 4 Engines Only)
• Volkswagen Vanagon (Air-cooled): 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983 (2.0L Type 4 Engines Only)
• Engine Note: Fits 2000cc Type 4 engines with standard diameter crankshaft journals.

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 039-105-701
• Application: Type 4 2000cc / 2.0L
• Size: Standard Crank / Standard Rod
• Quantity: Complete Set (8 halves for 4 rods)
• Construction: Steel-backed with high-strength bearing alloy lining
• Compatibility: Designed for 50mm rod journals (Standard)
• Interchange: 039105701

PRO TIPS

1. Verify Your Crankshaft Dimensions Before Installation

Even if your crankshaft looks pristine, never assume it is standard size without measuring it with a calibrated micrometer. In the world of air-cooled VWs, engines have often been rebuilt multiple times over the last 40 years. Use a micrometer to check the rod journals in at least three places to ensure they are round and within the factory standard specification of 49.98mm to 50.00mm. If your journals have been previously turned to .010, .020, or .030 under, these standard bearings will not work and will cause immediate engine failure due to excessive oil clearance.

2. Cleanliness and Proper Tang Alignment

During assembly, cleanliness is next to godliness. Ensure that the connecting rod bores and the backs of the bearings are completely dry and free of oil or debris before snapping them into place. The "tang" or "lug" on the bearing must seat perfectly into the machined notch in the connecting rod and the rod cap. These tangs are there for locating purposes, not to prevent the bearing from spinningthat is achieved by the "bearing crush." Once the bearings are seated, apply a generous amount of high-quality moly-based assembly lube to the bearing face, but never to the back of the bearing.

3. Torque to Spec and Check for Binding

Type 4 2000cc rods require specific torque sequences to ensure the bearing crush is set correctly. Always use new rod bolts if possible, as they are a stretch-bolt design in many applications. Once the rod is torqued onto the crankshaft, ensure the rod has the proper side-to-side play and rotates freely. If the rod feels "tight" or binds at any point in the 360-degree rotation, stop immediately. This could indicate a bent rod, an out-of-round journal, or a clearance issue. A properly clearanced Type 4 rod should fall under its own weight when the crank is rotated to the horizontal position.