1954-1979 EMPI 1600cc Turn Key Engine 98-0481-B
Built with precision and performance in mind, this all-new 1600cc EMPI turn key engine is expertly assembled and dyno-tested by EMPI’s team of professionals. Designed for plug-and-play installation, it comes fully dressed and ready to get your VW back on the road with reliability and power. Featuring upgraded AutoLinea dual-port cylinder heads with OSVAT OE-style valves and a custom 3-angle valve job, this engine delivers enhanced airflow and performance. The EMPI HEI ignition system ensures maintenance-free operation without the hassle of points adjustment. Covered by a 12-month, unlimited-mileage warranty, it offers peace of mind for your build. Get the performance and reliability you need with this fully tested, ready-to-go EMPI engine, perfect for restoring or upgrading your VW!
This 1600cc EMPI turn key engine is crafted with precision in Southern California by Jack Sacchette, a legendary figure in the VW racing community. As the founder of Jay Cee Enterprises and a 9-time VW drag racing champion, Jack brings decades of expertise and an unmatched commitment to quality. Known for their reliability and top-tier performance, his engine builds have earned recognition in Hot VW's magazine multiple times. An engine bearing Jack Sacchette’s name is a guarantee of exceptional craftsmanship and proven results.
This engine is crafted using premium, brand-new components from leading global manufacturers. No refurbished or rebuilt parts—just top-quality materials assembled for optimal performance. While specific components may vary due to global availability, rest assured every engine is expertly built with the finest materials to ensure reliability and excellence. This engine features top-quality components from trusted brands like AutoLinea, Elring, EMPI, OSVAT, Mahle, Manton, Silverline, and Schadek. It is built with a new AutoLinea “Bubble Top” engine case and AutoLinea dual-port cylinder heads, equipped with OE-style OSVAT valves and seats. The cylinder heads are expertly finished with EMPI's proprietary 3-angle valve job, performed on a Rottler valve machine at EMPI’s facility in Anaheim, California.
Follow included set-up & break-in instructions before running your engine.
VW Replacement Turn Key Engine Features:
- Fits 1954-1977 Standard Beetles
- Fits 1971-1979 Super Beetles
- Fits 1956-1974 Karmann Ghias
- Fits 1955-1967 Split Window Buses
- Fits 1968-1971 Bay Window Buses
- Fits 1973-1974 Things
- Requires 12V Flywheel
- 100% New & Ready to Install
- No Core Required
- Built by VW Racing Legend Jack Sacchette
- No Rebuilt Components - All New
- Tested & Tuned on the EMPI Dyno
- Trouble Free Operation
- Manufacturer Backed 12 Month/Unlimited Mileage Warranty
- Exhaust & Clutch Not Included
- FREE SHIPPING - No Additional Fees (Lower 48 States Only)
EMPI Turn-Key Engine Components:
- New 55 Amp Alternator (Black)
- New 34 PICT-3 Carburetor
- New EMPI HEI Electronic Ignition Kit with High Output Coil
- Upgraded Dual Port AutoLinea Cylinder Heads
- PennGrade 1 Oil Included (10w/30)
- Upgraded OSVAT OE Style Valves
- 35.55mm Intake & 32mm Exhaust Valves
- Proprietary 3-Angle Valve Job by EMPI Anaheim
- AutoLinea-EMPI. H.D. Aluminum “Bubble Top” Engine Case
- Direct Drilled, 69mm Stroke Crankshaft
- Mahle 85.5mm Pistons & Cylinders
- OE Spec Rods
- Stock Style Flat Gear Camshaft - .334" Lift, 250 Degree Duration
- 28mm Lifters - Precision Ground & Heat Treated
- OE Style, 4 Dowel Pin, 200mm Flywheel
- Heavy Duty Chromoly Gland Nut
- Standards Steel Center Main Bearings
- Standard Rod Bearings
- Standard Thrust Cam Bearings
- Schadek 26mm Oil Pump with Cover
- 8mm Chromoly Head Studs with Nuts
- OE Style Pushrod Tubes
- Manton 11.500" OAL x 3/8" Diameter x .035" Wall Thickness Pushrods
- High Performance 1.1:1 Ratio Rockers
- OE Style Steel Valve Covers (Black)
- Elring Engine Gaskets
- 36hp Doghouse Style Fan Shroud with Ducts
- Aluminum Sand Seal Crankshaft Pulley with Degree Marks
- 2 Piece Doghouse Tin (Black)
- Oil Cooler Adapter
- Polished Aluminum Vented Oil Filler (Black Cap)
- Black Engine Pulley Tin
- Hoover Bit for Doghouse Oil Cooler Tin
- Chrome Coil Bracket
- Billet Distributor
- 5 Plate Aluminum Doghouse Oil Cooler
- OE Style Dipstick
- Brosol Fuel Pump with Spacer
- Left & Right Air Deflector Plates
- Oil Pressure Switch for Indicator Light
- NGK BR6HS Spark Plugs
NOTE: This engine features chromoly pushrods, requiring a "zero lash" setting when adjusting the valves. This means the pushrod should spin freely, but there should be no noticeable play between the rocker arm, pushrod, and valve stem. Be sure to check and set this properly, especially before the engine's first start, to ensure optimal performance.
Also known under these part numbers: (For reference only)
EMPI Long Block 12 Month/12,000 Mile Warranty Details
EMPI Inc. warrantees each ALL NEW ALL EMPI long block to the original purchaser to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for a period of 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first) from the original date of purchase, not to exceed 90 days after EMPI Distributor purchase.
EMPI Inc strongly recommends seeking an Authorized EMPI distributor for long block completion, installation, and break-in. Comprehensive break-in instructions are included with every EMPI long block, which must be followed exactly or warranty may be voided.
Warranty does not cover failure due to the following: neglect, improper installation, overheating, incorrect valve adjustment, insufficient or contaminated oil, additives or abuse. Warranty will not apply to engines installed with non-stock or missing accessories.
Warranty does not cover racing, off road, or industrial use.
Liability: The liability of EMPI Inc is limited solely to the repair or replacement of defective parts. This warranty does not cover any loss of use or related service, labor or costs incurred in diagnosis, removal, or re-installation of the engine or any other accessories. Normal and regular engine maintenance is the complete responsibility of the owner of the engine. EMPI Inc shall not be liable for any incident, special, or consequential damages, including and not limited to roadside assistance, towing or related services.
Please contact your EMPI dealer to complete an RGA request to facilitate any warranty claim. EMPI Inc obligations assumed under this warranty are limited to the repair or replacement of defective parts as provided herein, and are in lieu of all other obligations or guarantees, expressed or implied