Super Chrome Deluxe Dress Up Kit, for Aircooled VW Engines

OVERVIEW

When it comes to making a bold statement at the next VW show or simply opening the decklid of your weekend cruiser, nothing beats the classic brilliance of a mirror-finish engine bay. The EMPI Super Chrome Deluxe Dress Up Kit is the definitive solution for air-cooled enthusiasts looking to replace tired, greasy, or rusted factory components with a cohesive, high-luster aesthetic. This isn''t just a collection of covers; it''s a complete transformation package designed to catch the light and highlight the unique architecture of the Volkswagen flat-four engine. Whether you''re finishing a ground-up restoration on a 1967 Beetle or adding some flash to a custom sand rail, this kit provides that professional, high-end look that separates a standard driver from a show-stopping masterpiece. The triple-chrome plating offers a deep, reflective shine that resists the elements and stands up to the heat of the engine compartment, ensuring your investment looks great for years to come.

Beyond the undeniable visual appeal, this deluxe kit offers practical benefits that every VW owner can appreciate. By bundling essential components like the magnetic drain plug, oil filler tube, and chrome valve covers, EMPI ensures that every visible inch of your engine is synchronized in style and function. The inclusion of a magnetic drain plug is a crucial upgrade for engine longevity, as it captures microscopic metallic debris that standard plugs might miss, protecting your bearings and internal components. Every component is engineered to meet EMPI''s rigorous standards for fitment and finish, providing a durable chrome plating that remains stable under the high operating temperatures of an air-cooled engine. Investing in this comprehensive kit means you won''t have to hunt down individual pieces or worry about mismatched finishes, giving you a streamlined installation process and a result that looks like it was professionally curated for a high-performance build.

FITMENT

This kit is designed for Type 1 based air-cooled engines (1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc). It fits the following models and years:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1954 through 1977 (Standard and Super Beetle)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• Volkswagen Bus / Type 2: 1955 through 1971 (Up to 1600cc upright engines)
• Volkswagen Thing / Type 181: 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, Trikes, and Kit Cars using VW Type 1 upright engine configurations.

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-8742-0
• Finish: High-Luster Triple Chrome Plating
• Material: Heavy-gauge stamped steel components
• Kit Includes: Chrome Stock-Style Valve Covers (Pair)
• Kit Includes: Chrome Alternator/Generator Strap
• Kit Includes: Chrome Distributor Clamp
• Kit Includes: Chrome Sump Plate with Magnetic Drain Plug
• Kit Includes: Chrome Crankshaft Pulley Bolt and Washer
• Kit Includes: Chrome Alternator/Generator Nut
• Kit Includes: Chrome Top Pulley (Standard Size)
• Kit Includes: Chrome Oil Filler Tube with Chrome Screw-on Cap
• Kit Includes: Chrome Ignition Coil Cover
• Kit Includes: Chrome Fuel Pump Backing Plate
• Kit Includes: Chrome Engine Oil Dipstick with Finger Loop
• Weight: Approximately 6.28 lbs

PRO TIPS

1. Prioritize Sealing Over Shine during Installation

While the chrome valve covers look incredible, the secret to a happy VW engine is a leak-free seal. Before installing the new chrome valve covers, ensure the cylinder head sealing surface is perfectly clean and free of old gasket material. We highly recommend using a high-quality cork gasket and a light skim of gasket sealant on the cover side only. This allows the gasket to stay with the cover during future valve adjustments while providing a tight, dry seal against the head. Never over-tighten the bails; they should "snap" into place with firm pressure to provide even tension across the gasket surface.

2. Protect Your Chrome from Corrosive Battery Gases

If you are installing this kit in a Beetle where the battery is located under the rear seat, be mindful of the battery vent tube. Corrosive gases and acid mist can travel into the engine bay and cause "pitting" or "peppering" on chrome surfaces over time. To keep your EMPI Super Chrome kit looking new, apply a high-quality non-abrasive automotive wax or a specialized chrome sealant to every piece before installation. This creates a sacrificial barrier against moisture and road salt. Regularly wiping down the components with a microfiber cloth after the engine has cooled will prevent dust and oil from baking onto the finish.

3. Use Caution with Sump Plate Studs

The included chrome sump plate and magnetic drain plug are fantastic upgrades, but the small 6mm studs on the bottom of your engine case are notoriously fragile. When installing the new chrome plate, always use new copper crush washers and gaskets. Tighten the nuts in a star pattern to just 5 foot-pounds (60 inch-pounds). Over-tightening these nuts in an attempt to stop a leak will often snap the stud or warp the chrome plate. If you encounter a leak, check the flatness of the plate and the condition of the case surface rather than applying more torque. The magnetic plug should be checked at every oil change to monitor the health of your internal engine components.