Type 3 Dipstick Block Off, Billet Aluminum, Sold Each

OVERVIEW

When you are building a high-performance air-cooled engine, every detail matters, especially when it comes to sealing your crankcase. The EMPI Type 3 Dipstick Block Off is an essential component for anyone utilizing a "Universal" engine case in a Type 1 application. Most modern replacement AS41 engine cases are manufactured with the "Universal" design, meaning they feature the mounting flange and oil return hole specifically intended for a Type 3 (Fastback, Squareback, or Notchback) dipstick tube. If you are installing this case into a Beetle, Karmann Ghia, or Bus, that extra hole is a massive vacuum leak and oil spray hazard waiting to happen. This precision CNC-machined billet aluminum plate provides a permanent, leak-proof solution that seals that boss perfectly, ensuring your engine maintain proper internal pressure and stays clean of oily residue.

Constructed from high-grade billet aluminum, this block-off plate is a significant upgrade over the flimsy, stamped-steel plates often found in the "bargain bin" of VW parts. Stamped plates are notorious for bowing in the center when the bolts are tightened, which leads to annoying "weeping" leaks that are nearly impossible to stop. This EMPI billet version is thick enough to remain perfectly flat under torque, providing even pressure across the included gasket. Beyond its functional superiority, the polished finish adds a professional, high-end look to the rear of your engine case, signaling that your build was done with no shortcuts. Whether you are finishing a stock rebuild or a 2275cc monster, this block-off plate is the professional way to "delete" the Type 3 dipstick provision on your universal case.

FITMENT

This block-off plate is designed specifically for Volkswagen engine cases featuring the Type 3 dipstick mounting boss, typically located on the lower right-hand side of the case. Fitment includes:

• Universal AS41 Engine Cases: All modern replacement cases used for Type 1, 2, or 3 builds.
• Volkswagen Type 3: 1961-1973 (When converting to a Type 1 style oil fill/dipstick setup).
• Volkswagen Beetle: All years utilizing a later-style Universal replacement case.
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: All years utilizing a later-style Universal replacement case.
• Volkswagen Bus/Transporter: All years utilizing a later-style Universal replacement case.
• Custom Sand Rails and Dune Buggies: Any air-cooled VW build based on a 1600cc-style dual relief universal case.

SPECS

• Material: High-Grade CNC-Machined Billet 6061 Aluminum.
• Finish: Polished Machined Aluminum for corrosion resistance and aesthetics.
• Application: Blocks the Type 3 dipstick hole on "Universal" engine cases.
• Components Included: (1) Billet Block Off Plate, (1) Sealing Gasket.
• Part Number: EMPI 4549-15 (Cross-reference 16-9516-0).
• Hardware Required: Uses standard M6 x 1.0 thread pitch bolts (typically 15mm-20mm length).
• Quantity: Sold Each.

PRO TIPS

1. Surface Preparation is Key

Before installing your new billet block-off plate, it is absolutely critical to ensure the mounting surface on the engine case is perfectly clean and flat. Use a plastic scraper or a brass brush to remove any old gasket material or oxidation from the engine case boss. Once the heavy debris is gone, wipe the surface down with a lint-free rag soaked in brake cleaner or acetone. A clean, oil-free surface is the only way to ensure the new gasket creates a molecular bond and prevents the "mystery drips" that plague many air-cooled VW owners. If the case boss has deep scratches, you may need to lightly "block" it with 400-grit sandpaper on a flat sanding block before installation.

2. Use a High-Quality Thread Sealer

The two mounting holes for this plate go directly into the engine case. While the gasket seals the plate itself, oil can occasionally "wick" through the threads of the bolts due to crankcase pressure. When installing your mounting bolts, apply a small drop of medium-strength thread locker (Blue Loctite) or a dedicated thread sealant to the bolt threads. This serves two purposes: it prevents the bolts from vibrating loose over thousands of miles of engine operation, and it creates an additional barrier against oil seepage. Always ensure you are using the correct length bolts; if they are too long, they can bottom out in the case before the plate is fully tightened, leading to an immediate leak.

3. Don''t Over-Torque the Bolts

It is very easy to get over-zealous when tightening parts onto a VW engine case, but remember that you are threading steel bolts into a relatively soft magnesium or aluminum alloy. Because this plate is made of rigid billet aluminum, it does not require massive amounts of torque to seal. Tighten the bolts evenly in small increments until they are "snug," which is typically between 5 to 7 foot-pounds of torque. Over-tightening can strip the threads out of your expensive engine case, requiring a Helicoil repair. If you see the gasket slightly compress, you have likely reached the perfect seal. Re-check the bolts after your first few heat cycles to ensure everything has settled and remains tight.