Valve Covers, Chrome Clip On, Fits 1500cc & Up VW

OVERVIEW

Elevate your engine bay with the timeless shine and professional finish of EMPI''s Chrome Clip-On Valve Covers, available right here at Appletree Automotive. For many air-cooled enthusiasts, the engine isn''t just the heart of the machine; it''s a showcase of vintage engineering and personal style. These covers provide an immediate visual upgrade, replacing those weathered, oily, and dull stock tins with a brilliant triple-chrome finish that reflects the pride you take in your build. Whether you are finishing a ground-up restoration on a 1967 Beetle or just adding some "jewelry" to your weekend cruiser, these covers deliver that iconic custom look without requiring any permanent modifications or expensive machining to your cylinder heads. They offer that classic "California Look" that has defined the VW scene for generations, ensuring your engine looks as good as it performs at the next local meetup or car show.

Beyond the aesthetics, these EMPI valve covers are engineered to maintain the factory sealing geometry while offering superior corrosion resistance compared to standard painted alternatives. They are designed as a direct replacement for the original equipment, utilizing the traditional "clip-on" style bail system that has kept VW engines running reliably for decades. This kit is comprehensive and user-friendly, arriving at your door as a complete pair. Each set includes two high-luster chrome covers, two heavy-duty chrome tension clips (bails), and a set of fresh cork gaskets to ensure a leak-free seal right out of the box. It is the perfect solution for owners of 1500cc, 1600cc, and even larger displacement dual-port engines who want a perfect balance of reliability, ease of maintenance, and show-ready style. When you choose these covers, you are choosing a part that fits correctly the first time, allowing you to spend less time in the garage and more time on the open road.

FITMENT

These chrome clip-on valve covers are designed for Type 1 based air-cooled engines 1500cc and larger. Detailed fitment includes:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1967-1977 (Standard and Super Beetle)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1967-1974
• Volkswagen Bus / Transporter: 1967-1971 (Type 2 with 1500cc/1600cc upright engines)
• Volkswagen Thing: 1973-1974 (Type 181)
• Volkswagen Type 3: 1966-1973 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback)
• Custom Applications: Fits all Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, Manx-style bodies, and Trikes utilizing a VW Type 1 1500cc or 1600cc based engine.
• Engine Compatibility: 1500cc, 1600cc, 1641cc, 1776cc, 1835cc, 1914cc, and larger engines using stock-style cylinder heads.

SPECS

• Material: Heavy-gauge stamped steel for durability and heat dissipation.
• Finish: High-quality Triple Chrome Plating for a mirror-like shine and rust resistance.
• Attachment Style: OEM-style Clip-On (utilizes traditional spring steel bails).
• Configuration: Sold as a pair (Left and Right sides included).
• Included Accessories: 2 Chrome Valve Covers, 2 Chrome Bails (Clips), 2 High-Density Cork Gaskets.
• Compatibility: Fits all 1500cc and 1600cc based upright engines.
• Part Number: 4534-20 (Cross-reference EMPI 00-8905-0).
• Weight: 2.0 lbs (Shipping weight).

PRO TIPS

1. Master the Gasket Seal

To ensure a leak-free installation that lasts, don''t just slap the gaskets on dry. At Appletree Auto, we recommend cleaning the inside of the new chrome valve cover thoroughly with a degreaser or brake cleaner to remove any manufacturing oils. Once dry, apply a very thin layer of high-quality gasket sealer or even a light dab of grease to the side of the gasket that touches the valve cover. This helps hold the gasket in place during installation and prevents it from slipping out of alignment when you snap the chrome bails into position. Never use RTV silicone on the head side of the gasket, as this makes future valve adjustments a nightmare and can lead to messy cleanup.

2. Check Your Bail Tension

The secret to a dry VW engine is proper tension on the valve cover clips. While these chrome bails are brand new and strong, it is always a good practice to ensure they "snap" firmly into the center groove of the cover. If the bail feels too easy to move, you can slightly increase the tension by carefully over-bending the arc of the wire before installation. A tight bail ensures that even pressure is applied across the entire surface of the gasket, preventing the common "bottom corner drip" that plagues many air-cooled Volkswagens. Always double-check that the bail is seated perfectly in the recessed channel on the face of the cover.

3. Maintain That Show-Quality