Ever tinkered with a VW engine and wished there was a simpler way to get the deck height just right? These cylinder shims from EMPI are your go-to solution for dialing in that perfect clearance without firing up the machine shop.
In air-cooled Volkswagen engines—think Bugs, Super Beetles, Karmann Ghias, buses, Type 3s, or even Things—the space between the cylinder and piston head is crucial. Too much or too little, and you're looking at compression issues, power loss, or worse, engine damage. These shims let you adjust that gap precisely, compensating for stroked cranks or machined cases, so your engine breathes right and performs like it should.
This kit includes four steel shims, each measuring 94mm in diameter and 0.040 inches (1mm) thick. They're built tough to handle the heat and pressure of your engine, with clearances for both 8mm and 10mm studs—though you might need a quick file for a perfect fit in some setups. No more guesswork; just stack them as needed to hit your target deck height.
Imagine popping the hood on your dune buggy after a long day on the trails. With these shims in place, your engine idles steady, pulls strong through gears, and sips fuel efficiently. They're especially handy if you've bumped up the stroke for more torque—suddenly, everything aligns without the cost or downtime of professional machining. Owners swear by them for restoring that factory-fresh feel while tweaking for custom builds.
Whether you're wrenching in your garage or prepping for a cross-country trip in your split-window bus, these shims save time and keep things authentic. They're a small part that makes a big difference in how your VW runs and feels on the road. Grab a set and feel the confidence of an engine tuned just for you.
