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Aircooled.net Glossary

Nickname for Beetles made prior to 1953. Until 1953, VW Bugs had 2 small windows in the rear, that came to be known as “split windows” once they were replaced by an oval window in models made between 1953 -57.

Describes a larger window that replaces the standard roll-up and wing window in a Beetle, Ghia, or Type 3.

A common German nickname for the VW Beetle sedan and convertible.

The friction disk that is mounted to the transmission input shaft.  This is what rubs between the flywheel and pressure plate and engages the drive wheels via the transmission.

This is the heart of the engine.  This is what spins and provides the motion for all the other parts in the engine (con-rods, pistons, transmission, etc.).  All other parts in the engine work toward getting the crankshaft to turn fast and powerful.

The area in the head where the fuel/air mixture is compressed and ignited by the spark plug.  Fly-cutting reduces its size, porting and hemi-cutting increases its size.

This is a numeric amount which represents the amount that the intake fuel/air charge is compressed, during the compression stroke (7.5:1), as compared to the ambient air pressure (7.5:1).  As a general rule, the higher the compression; the more horse power and heat is created.

These are the parts that “connect” the crankshaft and the piston assemblies.  The crankshaft side is large and has an end cap which is held on with 2 nuts.  The pistons are held on the small end of the rod with a hollow wrist pin.

Under cylinder air deflector tin originally used on T-3s.  This type of tin forces more of the cooling air completely around the cylinders providing better, more even cooling.

A crankshaft which has large counterweights placed on opposite sides from the rod journals.  By having these counter weights added, the crankshaft distorts less under stress, is able to reach higher RPMs, and has a much smoother operation resulting in longer life for the crank and case.  Counterweights can be added by welding to an existing crank or they can be either forged or cast in when the crank is made.

A type of linkage for dual carburetors which typically has a hexagonal bar which reaches from air cleaner to air cleaner.  There are then adjustable heim joints which connect to the carb butterflies on either end.  This type of linkage is usually superior to the center-pull type since carb function is un-effected by engine temperature.

These are the large rather round parts with the deep cooling fins on the outside.  The I.D. bore is where the  piston assemblies ride.

The distance measured in  thousandths of an inch between the top of the piston and the top edge of the cylinder.  This measurement is one component in the CR formula.

A popular brand of Italian performance carburetor.  Dellortos are no longer made new and most will agree that they are superior to Webers in both performance and flow.  Dellorto made top quality dual 2 barrel carb sets (DRLA) available in 36mm, 40mm, 44mm & 48mm sizes.  Also available is a dual 1 barrel set (FRD) in 34mm

The part of the engine which solely controls the timing of the ignition spark going to the plugs.  On your VW, you will have a plastic cap which has 1 center wire coming in from the coil surrounded by 4 wires going to the spark plugs.  Inside, you’ll find the points; the condenser (with the green wire) hangs off the side.

The brass gear on the rear of the crankshaft which engages the distributor drive pinion which in turn turns the distributor.

The vertical pinion gear which is driven by the brass drive gear on the crankshaft.  This directly drives the distributor.  It also has a cam in the middle which is for the stock fuel pump check rod.  This also drives the fuel pump.  This is a busy little part!

The type of oil cooler found on ALL ’71 and later T-1s.  This cooler is mounted in front of the fan shroud so that it doesn’t pre-heat the cooling air to the #3 & #4 cylinders.  The shroud has extra ducting which takes cooling air from the fan and routs it directly onto the cooler.  The warm air is then routed out of the engine compartment through exhaust tin.  This is the best, most efficient oil cooler system VW ever produced for the T-1.

The late model fan shroud (’71 and later).  Incorporates the ducting and necessary tin required for using the late model oil cooler.

Pins which keep bearing from spinning in their bores in the case OR pins which lock the flywheel to the crankshaft with the help of the gland nut.

Front wheel spindles which have the wheel spindle moved typically 2″ higher.  These provide a lowered front end without compromising the ride quality or handling.

Two separate carburetors on one engine.  This can refer to both single barrel carbs like Kadrons AND two barrel carbs like Webers and Dellortos

Refers to the number of individual intake passages into the head.  Dual ports have 2 per head.

This is where an engine or whole car is placed on a dynometer and its performance is tested in real-time.  This is the only real way to see just how much horse power and torque an engine produces.  It’s also the best way to tune an engine for maximum performance since you can see what subtle changes in jetting and timing make, enabling you to squeeze the most out of what you have

Large sheet metal part which directs the flow of air coming directly off the cooling fan.  Two styles are used; early – non-doghouse (through ’70) & late – doghouse (’71 and later).

Air deflectors which are part of the thermostat system.  These are located at the base of the fan shroud and are actuated by the thermostat bellows /check rod.  When the engine is cold, the flaps are closed reducing the amount of cooling air that reaches the cylinders and heads.  As the engine warms up, the bellows expand causing the check rod to open the flaps and allowing a full amount of cooling air to blow across the cylinders and heads.  These are often removed.

A machining process which removes material on the head where the cylinders seal to the head.  This can be done to true a sealing surface with grooves or other damage.  Fly cutting REDUCES the combustion chamber size and raises your CR.  If you have one head fly cut, you MUST have the other fly cut to match so that your CR is even between both sides of the engine.

The large, heavy round plate which is held on the front of the engine with the gland nut.  This is part of what couples the transmission to the engine.  The clutch pressure plate mounts to the flywheel.  The gear teeth on the outer edge are what the starter engages to start the engine.  There are actually 3 types of flywheels for the T-1; a 6V for a 180mm clutch, a 6V for a 200mm clutch (rare) and a 12V for a 200mm clutch.  ALL VWs prior to ’67 had the 6V/180mm type with VERY few ’66 models which had the 6V/200mm type.  ALL ’67 and later U.S. models had the 12V/200mm type. The “6V/12V” refers to the voltage of starter which its used to engage the ring gear.  A 6V starter CANNOT be used on a 12V flywheel and vise versa.

A mechanical device used for pumping fuel.  There are electrically driven pumps and mechanically driven pumps.  The stock mechanically driven pump is located on the rear of the engine between the distributor and the generator/alternator stand

A modified oil pump system which routes ALL the oil directly from the pump into an aftermarket filter and sometimes a cooler and then routes back into the case via a fitting which is drilled & tapped into the oil galley about 2″ from where the pump is.  This is the ONLY way to have truly 100% filtered oil and is probably the best single upgrade to any engine you can make on build-up.

 

 

Produces the electricity necessary to run the engine and re-charge the battery while the engine is running.  The cooling fan mounts to the front if it.  It’s mounted to the fan shroud and is driven by the fan belt by the crankshaft pulley.

A hollow bolt actually, it’s the large 36mm bolt which attaches the flywheel to the front of the crankshaft.  This baby is torqued to between 225 and 250 ft/lbs!!  It also has a set of needle bearings in it which support the transmission input shaft.  Don’t forget to add a little grease to this any time the engine is out.

Brass bushings in which the valve stems ride.  These are pounded into place with a special driver and a hammer.  Then they are reamed to fit the stem of the valve.  If you have a puff of blue smoke out of your car as soon as the engine starts, chances are the guides are worn and allowing oil to pool in the cylinders.

The part of the engine which goes on top of the cylinders.  They house the valves, rockers, spark plugs and combustion chambers.  Probably no other single part is more capable of making real horse power than the head, that’s why good ones cost so much.

A performance exhaust system in which ALL runners are of equal length before the collector.  This helps to maximize power.  A header exhaust is normally mandrel bent and has smooth  bends for smoother, higher flow.

A round copper ring that fits between the tops of the cylinders and the heads.  Your VW did NOT come with a head gasket (believe it or not!!), but many folks add them to high Performance engines to help ensure a tight seal.

Gears which are cut at an angle so that more than one set of teeth are engaged at one time.  Helical-cut gears are quiet in operation, but creates an amount of side load (thrust) on the gear.  ALL gears within air-cooled VWs are this type with the exception of the starter ring gear and the reverse transmission gear (that’s why it sounds different backing up than going forward).

A machining process which finishes the surface of the cylinders and smoothes/restores a clean gouge-free surface for the rings to ride on.  Honing is one of the few machining processes that the home mechanic can do him/her self.

Inside Diameter

This refers to the carburetors being synchronized; pulling the same amount of fuel & air.

 

A small square hole in which a factory jack can be inserted to change a tire.  On T-1s there are 2; one on each side just in front of the rear wheel under the running board.  On T-2s there are 4; two on either side – one in front of the rear wheels and one behind the front wheels.

The polished surface on either the crankshaft or cam in which the bearings rub.  The crankshaft has both main journals and rod journals.  The cam has only bearing journals.

These are little tapered half-round parts which lock onto the valve stem by the grooves.  The outer diameter of the keeper is tapered.  This in turn locks into the retainer which holds the valve spring in place

The mushroom-shaped part which rides on the cam lobes and transmit torqueing motion to pushing motion.  There are 8 per engine.  These move in bores in the case and actuate the push rods which eventually move the valves.

Same as the solid lifters only these are designed to be self adjusting (no need to adjust the valves with these).  Hydraulic lifters dramatically quiet the operation of the engine since they are made to run at ZERO clearance.  These are what most every other modern car on the road has.  Running these REQUIRES a FF oil system since the tiny metering orifices inside can be clogged by minute particles in oil.

A stock flywheel which has had material from the outer edge removed on a lathe.  Generally these are available in 12# and 10.5# weights.  Having a lightened flywheel allows your engine to spin up in RPMs faster and will read more HP on a dyno as well as give the car a feeling of more HP.  However, lightened flywheel make for a jerkier ride and slightly reduced fuel mileage from a severe loss of inertia causing the engine to work harder to keep a constant speed.

Refers to the engine assembly from the crankshaft out to the valve covers and everything in between.  Not included are the accessories and engine tin.

The bearings in which the crankshaft spins in the case.

Generally the same as a standard header but the collector comes together at less of an angle.   This helps flow characteristics and actually helps to scavenge exhaust fumes by creating a vacuum on the other cylinders as each cylinder expels it’s exhaust.  It’s a more efficient system at the higher RPM ranges

Outside Diameter.

Original Equipment Manufacturer.

The frame of your VW in which the suspension and drive train are installed.

The part which compresses the combustion fuel/air mixture in the cylinder on the compression stroke.  Pistons come in 3 basic flavors; domed top (high CR), flat top (standard CR) and dished top (low CR).

These provide a good seal between the piston and the cylinders wall.  There are 2 top rings, or compression rings.  The bottom ring is actually in 3 pieces (2 rings and a spacer).  This is your oil control ring.  Many racers or folks building high performance engines will substitute the top 1 or 2 rings with Total Seal® Gapless® rings to ensure minimal leak-down and top performance.

This bolts onto the front of the flywheel and squeezes the clutch disk tightly against the flywheel’s friction surface.  These are available in two basic styles; the spring-type (which is the stock style) and the diaphragm-type (Porsche style).  Both are further available in multiple pressure ratings so that they can be used on mild street engines (light-duty) or wild race applications (super-heavy duty).

Long hollow round rods that transmit input from the lifters to the rocker arms.  These fill with oil and route all the oil to the heads while the engine is running.  They come is various lengths to allow for proper set-up of the rocker arm geometry.  High performance engines which use dual or triple valve springs use PRs made of chromoly.

A cylindrical tube which has a series of bellows on either end which fit between the case and the heads.  These provide a route for the used oil from the head to gravity drain back into the case for re-use.  There are 4 basic styles that can be used on a T-1 engine; the standard, the windage style (which has a longer end that sticks out past the bellows on the case end), a spring-loaded adjustable type (normally used for replacing a broken PR tube, and finally a machined adjustable type (normally found on high dollar of-road rigs (these provide a degree of protection against damage to the PRs).

A machining process done to crankshafts and cams which restores the wear surfaces to correct specs.  When this has been done to a crankshaft, you must ensure you get replacement bearings with the correct I.D. to ensure a proper fit.

A round disk which goes on top of the valve springs and with the help of the keepers, lock the valve to the springs.

The part you see under the valve cover.  This part transmits the pushing force from the PRs to the valve stems by pivoting on a center shaft.  Stock rocker arms have an output to input ratio of 1.1:1 but they can commonly be bought in the ratios 1.25:1, 1.4:1 for more valve lift without having to change the cam.  Before using the high ratio rockers, check with your cams manufacturer to see if those rockers will work well with the cam.

A thin metal wear surface that is placed between the crankshaft and the large end of the connecting rods.  These are made of softer metals than the crank or rods and will endure most of the wear and abuse from normal use.  A “sacrificial layer” so to speak

This refers to the engine assembly that is contained INSIDE & INCLUDING the engine case.  This assembly contains all the parts for the bottom-end of the motor (ie: case, crankshaft, rods, cam, lifters, distributor drive pinion, etc.)

The early style of head which has only ONE EXTERNAL intake hole (or port) which splits off into two separate ports internally to each intake valve.

This is the large, concave washer that is fitted onto the rear of the crankshaft.  It’s installed with the center angled forward.  The slinger helps keep the oil from spitting out from around the crank pulley since it’s un-sealed.  If you have a problem with oil spewing out from around the crank pulley, you may have a slinger installed backwards

This is a heavy duty version of the part that the ring gear mounts to in the transmission.  The main difference between a “super-diff” and a stock differential is the addition of 2 extra spider gears (for a total of 4).  This provides a much stronger differential and  less chance of breaking when the clutch gets dumped at high RPMs.

The German OEM manufacturer for ALL air-cooled VW carburetors.

The part that threads into the top of the head and arch’s a spark when energized by the ignition system.  This spark causes the fuel/air mixture to explode and push the piston down.

Special high-tension wires that deliver the pulse of high energy from the ignition system to the spark plugs

A machining process which ensures that the surfaces of a series of like bores are all equal in depth.  This is often done to the case cylinder bores to ensure they are all the same level in relation to the centerline of the crank.  This will help ensure you have the same DH on all cylinders.  This can also be done to any surface on which a nut and washer is places.  This will ensure the surface is flat and smooth for consistent torquing.

Gears that have the teeth straight across the surface.  This type of gear only engages a couple teeth at a time and is much louder than a helical gear.  There is no side load placed on a straight-cut gear.  This is a common replacement for the cam gears since it eliminates the side-load (thrust) placed on the cam and gives a more precise cam timing.  Straight cut cam gears are loud but sound kind of “mean” on the right car but will probably be too loud for a daily driver.

The stock excuse for an oil filter.  Goes between the sump plate and the pick-up tube and helps reduce the large chunks from getting sucked up into the oil pump.  If you run a true FF oil filtering system, you can toss this thing out.

Refers to the long studs which thread into the case/case-savers on which your cylinders and heads are mounted and torqued.  There is 2 basic types; a SP set and a DP set.  These available in the early 10mm variety and the later 8mm variety.  The 8mm is actually better since they are able to expand at the same rate as the engine parts resulting in consistent head torques.  The 10mm type are more prone to pulling the threads out of the case since they do not expand as well and torque increased as the engine warms.

The amount that the crankshaft moves the pistons within their bores from the bottom to the top.  69mm is stock for all 1500/1600 bases engines.

Refers to a crankshaft which gives the pistons a longer stroke within the bores.  A longer stroke gives the piston more leverage in which to turn the crank resulting in more power.  A longer stroke also increases the engine’s displacement.  A stock crankshaft can have the stroke increased by welding beads on the outer ends of the rod journals and then regrinding the journals further out from the crankshaft centerline (hence the name “welded stroker”).  A crankshaft can also be forged or cast and then ground as a new stroker crank.

The bottom of the engine case where the oil pools and gets sucked up into the oil pump.  Some will add “deep sumps” to the bottom of the engine to increase oil capacity for hard driving that way the oil won’t slosh away from the pick-up tube and there is always sufficient oil ready.

These are an aftermarket style of valve adjuster that have a ball bearing with a machined flat spot on it which give a more consistent valve gap and will not mushroom the valve stems over time.  These are often times in-correctly referred to as “swivel feet” adjusters.

These are the Porsche 911 style of valve adjusters which have a large foot on the bottom which swivels.  These work similar to the swivel ball adjusters but have an even wider contact area for the valve stem and are the best you can buy as far as valve adjusters are concerned.

An electronic gauge which measures engine speed in revolutions per minute (RPM).  It gets it’s signal from the engine off of the NEGATIVE (“1” or “-“) side of the coil.

This mark on ALL crank pulleys refers to the compression stroke of the #1 & #3 pistons.  Set it to the seam in your case, then pull off the distributor cap and note which plug wire it’s pointing to.  That’s the piston ready to fire.

Round little parts made from Teflon which are used to replace the wrist pin clips.  These are cheap insurance against a wristpin clip coming unseated and ruining your cylinders.

Refers to the parts of the engine from the pistons and cylinders out to the valve covers and everything in between.

Refers to replacing or freshening-up of the piston/cylinders/rings and the heads.  It’s an easy way to bring a tired, smoking motor back to life again.  However, if your engine has low oil pressure, it will do NOTHING to correct that.  ONLY a total rebuild will correct a low oil pressure problem.  I personally do not recommend doing these. since the bottom-end is usually just as tired as the top.

The bearing assembly which engages the pressure plate when you put your foot on the clutch pedal.  When worn out, they will begin to “growl” or “whine” when the clutch pedal is pressed.  These should be changed whenever the clutch and pressure plate are replaced

Refers to the side load placed on bearing surfaces or gear assemblies while the engine/transmission is running.

Special bearings which have wear surfaces on the sides of them which wrap around a bearing saddle.  The front main bearing and 1/2 if the rear cam bearing are this type.

A machining process which trues the thrust bearing surface for the forward main bearing in the case.  Over time as the clutch pedal is pressed the case gets a groove pounded in causing the thrust bearing to move slightly in and out reducing oil pressure.  Whenever this process is done on a case, over-size thrust bearings are required so a tight fit is restored.

The front storage area in any REAL car.

A vacuum operated tool which gives a visual indication of the amount of air being sucked unto a carburetor.  This type of tool is required to proper synchronize dual carbs.  This ONLY measures the amount of air being ingested; NOT FUEL.

The part of the engine which opens in the head and allows the exhaust gasses to escape into the exhaust system.  These are the smaller of the two valves in a combustion chamber.

The part of the engine which opens in the head and allows the intake fuel/air mixture to enter the combustion chamber.  These are the larger of the two valves in a combustion chamber.

These are steel rings which are pressed into the heads.  This is the sealing surface on which the valve rests when it is in the closed position

A steel coil which provides the tension required to seal the valve against the seat.  It also ensures that the valve stays closed until the cam moves the lifter, PR and rocker causing it to compress.

A popular brand of Italian performance carburetor.  Weber makes good quality dual 2 barrel carb sets (IDF) available in 36mm, 40mm, 44mm & 48mm sizes.  Weber also made the infamous racing carb 48mm IDA.  Additionally, Weber makes a dual 1 barrel carb set (ICT) in 34mm.

This is a specially made sheet metal piece which is placed into the sump area of an engine upon assembly.  It allows oil to drain down, but controls the sloshing during hard cornering and fast acceleration/deceleration so that the oil pick-up tube doesn’t suck air momentarily.

A cylindrical, thick metal tube which connects the small end of the connecting rod to the piston assembly.

Slang term to describe a larger window that replaces the standard roll-up and wing window in a Beetle, Ghia, or Type 3.

Basic Bug

Deluxe Bus

European name for the ’73 to ’75 Super Beetle sedans and ’73 to ’79 convertibles. (Curved windscreen)

A pre-1964 Hardtop Deluxe Bus. Identical in trim and appointments to a 23-Window Deluxe Bus but without the eight roof windows or sunroof. M-Code 130 – Deluxe without sunroof and roof windows.

Vehicle Identification Number for the very last German-built Beetle, A 1980 Convertible painted in Mars Red, built on the 10th of January 1980 10:28 by the Karmann Factory.  This Super-Beetle is stored in the Karmann Museum in Osnabruck, Germany.

The “rare” combination that occurs when someone grafts a Deluxe roof clip onto aKombi or Standard model Bus. Easily identified by the lack of side windows in the rear-hatch cargo area.

Term used for the sliding ragtop sunroof in a 1956 through 1967 (1963 US spec) Beetle, because it forms 2 folds when open.

A Type 24 (Deluxe bus) built from 1964 till 1967.  The window count is tallied like this:
2 windshields (pre-1967)
2 front door windows (the wing wings and sliding windows all count as 1)
4 windows down the left side of the bus
4 windows down the right side
1 in the rear hatch
8 skylights in the roof (4 each side)
2+2+4+4+1+8 = 21

A Type 24 (Deluxe bus) built in 1963 or earlier.  The window count is tallied like this:
2 windshields (pre-1967)
2 front door windows (the wing wings and sliding windows all count as 1)
4 windows down the left side of the bus
4 windows down the right side
2 curved windows total on the rear corners (1963 and earlier only)
1 in the rear hatch
8 skylights in the roof (4 each side)
2+2+4+4+2+1+8 = 23

The engine initially designed for the Volksauto which appeared during the split-window era of beetles and the early Barndoor Buses.

Part number prefix used on original Barndoor era parts. The 29 designation is believed to be derived from the Type 29 prototype bus.

Refers to a VW that is painted in 2 colors, often top and bottom.  For instance, aStandard Microbus might be painted in Sealing Wax Red on the bottom half and Beige Grey on the top half.

Term used for the sliding ragtop sunroof in a 1950 through 1955 Beetle, because it forms 3 folds when open.

Refers to the number of mounting points used to hold the VW emblem on the top of the front hood.  3-tab hoods were used after January, 1961.  The term tab is actually a misnomer in this case as the emblem is mounted via posts.  The mounting portion on the decklid was flat for a short time, then a raised circle was added to offset the emblem from the hood.

36 hp

Refers to the number of mounting points used to hold the VW emblem on the top of the front hood.  4-tab hoods were used until January, 1961.

Refers to the number of lug nuts used on a VW rim.  This number varies by year and type of VW.

Refers to the number of lug nuts used on a VW rim.  This number varies by year and type of VW.

Refers to the number of seating positions in a VW Bus.  A 7-seater is typically awalk-through Bus with a short middle seat.  2 seats up front, 2 seats in the middle, and 3 seats in the rear.

Refers to the number of seating positions in a VW Bus.  A 8-seater can be a walk-through Bus with a full length middle seat.  2 seats up front, 3 seats in the middle, and 3 seats in the rear.  Or it can be a bench front seat with a short middle seat.  3 seats up front, 2 seats in the middle, and 3 seats in the rear.  VW literature also refers to a Bus with 3 full bench seats as an 8-seater on occasion, specifying that the front seat held only 2 adults.  Confused yet?

Refers to the number of seating positions in a VW Bus.  A 9-seater is a bench front seat Bus with a full middle seat.  3 seats up front, 3 seats in the middle, and 3 seats in the rear.

In the Netherlands, a nickname for the post-1967Transporter.

Small hook used in various VW models to hold a coat or other item.

A version of the VW Transporter produced in Mexico.  The Combi is a Bay Window Bus with a VW Golf-style engine and transmission. It has an 1.8L 4-cylider front wheel drive engine.

A rod that is the vital connection between the piston and the crankshaft. It is connected to the crankshaft and allows the piston to move freely up and down in the cylinder.

Type of rim.  Originally equipped on Porsche vehicles.

Term used to describe a 15-Window or 23-Window Bus due to the 2 “corner windows” at the rear left and right surrounding the rear hatch.

Produced in Australia from 1965 through 1968, the Country Buggy used the Beetle engine and floor pan withBus trailing arms on the front and reduction boxes in the rear. It had a respectable ground clearance of 230mm.  Country Buggies were available with 1200 cc and 1300 cc engines.  The 1300 was standard.  The electrical system was 6-volt. The body was designed in Australia and built from folded flat sheet steel for ease of manufacture and extreme ruggedness; strengthening ribs were included along the sides, and the very high sills prevented flooding when crossing streams. Only 1,956 Country Buggies were made, including about 400 left-hand drive examples. It debuted on April 1, 1965 and were sold until October, 1968 when low sales volumes and design problems prompted VW Headquarters in Germany to end production.

Two door, hardtop body style, like the Karmann-Ghia.

Term used (mainly by the seller/owner) to describe cars that have been featured on the cover of one or more VW Magazines.

Term used to describe the 15 X 4.5 Porsche Fuchs, because of the leaf portion sticking out of the rim.  This term originated in the early 80’s in East Los Angeles.

Bent steel bar used to crank over the engine in case of battery failure or for usage on an Industrial engine

Nut used in the center of the engine pulley for the crank handle to rotate the engine.

A shaft consisting of a series of cranks to which the connecting rods of an engine are attached

Pre-1953 transmission with no synchros.  Requires double-clutching to change gears.  Split-case design but not to be confused with a split-case transmission

After realizing the popularity the Binz coach-built truck models had achieved, VW realized the demand and stepped up production of their own double cab model. The official VW Double Cab was similar to the Binzdesign yet the door was almost half the width, leading to a smaller rear passenger compartment and a slightly longer bed area. Initially Double Cabs had gates made from shortened Single Cab gates until production was ramped up for DC-specific parts. DC’s were never available with ribbed bumpers..

Front quarter panel vents on ’51-’52 deluxe split window Beetles.

Slang term identifying the 15″ Bus wheel that has indentations around each lug nut hole.

General term to indicate any non-factory modification of a vehicle, from mild to radical.  Opposite of stock

Axle joint used for an IRS rear end.

The rearmost roof support metal on a 4-pillar car.  Also see A-pillar, B-pillar, and C-pillar

Slang for dashboard.

Area in the front of the interior around the steering wheel that houses the gauges.

Small dash area used on Barndoor Buses from 1950-1955.  Can also refer just to the Bakelite speedo dash face used on Barndoor and Split-Window Beetles

Term to describe the engine cover on various VW models

One of the more popular brands of dual carburetors for high performance upgrade of the VW motor.

Term for highest trim level on a bus.  A Standard microbus with the addition of trim strips along the beltline, dash clock, etc.  Deluxes began production in 1951 and were available in both sunroof and non-sunroof models

Device for slowing or stopping the rotation of a wheel. Consists of a rotor and brake caliper.  The rotor, usually made of cast iron, is connected to the front or rear axles. Friction material in the form of brake pads in the caliper are forced hydraulically against both sides of the disc. Friction causes the rotor and attached wheel to slow or stop.

Introduced in the 1971 model year on all upright air-cooled engines, the “doghouse” fan shroud (so called because of the two additional pieces of tin that were added to the front of the shroud to accommodate the new cooler)  provided a more efficient system of cooling the VW engine. The new design re-located the oil cooler (found previously within the shroud, over the number 3 cylinder) by offsetting it away from number three towards the front of the car.  Coupled with a  high volume fan this set up provided more cooling to the VW engine. As a side note, the doghouse fan itself is not interchangeable with non-doghouse shrouds and vice versa.

Area of metal on a VW Bus surrounding the front wheel well.  Aka the front wheel arch.

Style of Dogleg used on 62-67 Buses where the lip is thinner, approx. 24 mm high in the center.

Flat piece of metal on hinge side of door that prevents the door from opening too far out and damaging the hinges and door sheet metal. Cannot be used with 1-piece window glass.  After market door stops are made of thick cable which flexes thus enabling the use of 1-piece windows.

Hardboard, vinyl, cloth (or a combination of one or all of them) that covers the inside of the door in the interior.  Often replaced during a restoration.

After realizing the popularity the Binz coach-built truck models had achieved, VW realized the demand and stepped up production of their own double cab model. The official VW Double Cab was similar to the Binzdesign yet the door was almost half the width, leading to a smaller rear passenger compartment and a slightly longer bed area. Initially Double Cabs had gates made from shortened Single Cab gates until production was ramped up for DC-specific parts. DC’s were never available with ribbed bumpers..

Indicates a VW Bus that has cargo doors on both the left and right hand side of the vehicle.  The term “drive-thru” is also used.

Front-end that has been modified to allow for lower stance, creating a lowered VW.  Also see adjuster.

Modified front-end spindle that produces a lower stance for the front of a vehicle

Refers to the number of individual intake passages into the head.  Dual ports have 2 per head.

General term for an off-road VW kit car based on a Beetle chassis.

Dual Vacuum Dual Advance . A distributor with both vacuum and mechanical advances but only one vacuum can. It provides vacuum to retard the timing at idle on one vacuum line for emissions reasons and vacuum to advance the timing when driving on the other vacuum line. These were paired with the 34 Pict-3 carburetor stock for select 1971-1974 vehicles.

The tail lights used on export US Beetles from late 1954 through April 1955 only. Use the same size bodies as the beloved Heart Tail Lights.

Larger accessory side mirror used on Split-Window and Bay-Window Buses.

Large Taillight used on Beetles and Super Beetles from 1973 to 1977 and through 1979 on convertibles. Taillight takes an entirely different fender due to its size. Reflector in center, brake/running light in middle, orange section blinker.

Smaller back seat, often seen in Ghias that was suitable only for small children or emergencies.  Usually folded down to provide an additional carpeted cargo area.

Stamped identification number, often underneath the generator pedestal or near the center of the case halves.

Metal duct work and covering pieces that provides routing of air to cool the engine as well as providing access to some areas of the engine, such as the valves, for adjusting.

Atermarket aluminum wheel known for its light weight and popularity with drag racers.

Term used to describe Volkswagen options that were unique features used only in the European market.  For example: Semaphore turn signals on Beetle and Bus from 1955 to 1960 models, (US bound Export models lost the semaphores in 1955), amber front turn signals, and red/amber brake lights, (on Euro cars beetle and bus after 1961, and on Euro Karmann Ghias since 1955).  Most Euro Beetles/Ghias had cloth interiors as well, while Export cars received leatherette.  This sets Euro cars apart from all the rest, and also makes them more desirable to serious collectors.

The official factory name for the T4 Transporter (fourth generation), which was introduced in 1992.

Accessory headlight cover

A version of the Type 3 Volkswagen.  Characterized by a rear body shape falls in an unbroken line from the roofline to the rear bumper. Began production in late 1965 (1966 model year)

Slang term for Fastback.

Mirror arm used on Buses from 1955 to mid-1958.  It has a larger base right above the hinge area than later Buses mirror arms.

Removable body section of a VW vehicle, usually houses the headlights or taillights

Plastic/vinyl beading used between the fenders and the body on VW vehicles, priomarily to prevent metal to metal contact while sealing the joining surface.

Underside of the fender, where the tire often is situated.  In the case of Beetle fenders, this area is concave.

 

Fuel injection

Term used for the roof opening in pre-65 model Westfalias, used for ventilation.

Term used for the 1961 – ’65 Westfalias. The front seat was hinged at the bottom and could “flip” against the steering wheel to allow more seating in the cargo area.

Superstructure of a VW automobile.  Also see chassis

Headlights style used on all models up to 1967.

1962 and later heating system where the air supply for the heating system is drawn in by the cooling fan and blown out through the fan housing through the heat exchangers.

Slang term for the front turn signals on ’62 to ’67 buses. The orange center of the lens looks like a yolk. the outer like the white of the egg.

U-shaped area at the front center of a Beetle

Two parallel tubes that are bolted to the Chassis that, in turn, have the remainder of the front suspension attached to them.

Area from the dashboard forward, not to include any fenders.

Type of rim characterized by 5 spokes in a Porsche pattern.  Available in various widths and often polished to a chrome-like appearance.  Fuchs are a forged wheel, making them very strong for their weight.  Fuchs is the name of the manufacturer – they are also know for construction equipment.  Fuchs means “fox” in German.

Shut-off and reserve valve located on VWs produced without fuel gauges to allow the owner approx. 1 US gallon of a reserve tank.

Factory or dealer-installed accessory that provided additional heat when needed.

Mechanical or electrical instruments that provide vehicle information.  May include speedometer, tripometer,odometer, gas gauge, warning lights, or tachometer.

Electrical device that converts rotational movement provided by a belt driven off the engine’s crankshaft to electrical energy.  The generator in turn runs the electricity through the regulator to provide a constant voltage to keep the battery charged

See Karmann Ghia

1956 – 1961 US Beetle taillights.

Handle mounted on the dashboard or in the cargo area of a Bus.  Slang: “oh-shit” handle.

Accessory Bus mirror arm, most obvious feature being the diagonal arm from the base to where the mirror attaches.

Headlight accessory.

Vinyl or cloth fabric which covers the ceiling of the vehicle.  Some Bus models, such as Panelvans and Kombis did not come with a headliner.

The term used to define the Beetles first combined stop lamp, tail light indicators. The name comes from the heart shaped dark red plastic window located on the top of the tail light body for the stop lamp. These were first used in late 1952 and continued through the first part of 1955 on non-US models. Some associate the end of the Heart Lights era with the end of the Semaphores in production. Not to confused with the US only export Egg Tail Lightsthat used the same location on the fender and the same size body. The Heart Lights were deemed unsafe by the USDOT by mid 1954.

Metal-framed boxes that transfer air and/or heat from the engine compartment into the cabin area of a VW.

A rear spoiler that mounted to the fresh air vents below the rear window.  Originally sold be J C Whitney in the early 70’s.

Seats introduced in 1968 in the U.S. and other markets for increased safety.   These seats have the profile of a modern seat with a seat back that rises completely up the back to provide a headrest area.

Gear selector rod with a shift finger welded on the end in the nosecone of the transmission.  Shaped like a hockey stick.  Your shifter engages the shift rod, which then travels back to the shift coupling, which secures the shift rod to the hockey stick so that when you move the shifter, your transmission changes gears.

The front or rear lift-up portion of an auto body that allows access to the engine or trunk space.

Pre-1964 exterior door handles that swing out to open, versus the push button style that attached to the door on the front and rear end.

Term referring to the collective of a car’s headliner, seats, upholstery, carpet, armrests, dashboard, door panels, etc.

Independent Rear Suspension.  Indicating that the left and right rear suspension travel independently of each other. Associated with vehicles having constant velocity (CV) joints as opposed to vehicles with aSwingaxle suspension

J-shaped pipe used to extend from cylinders 1 and 3 to the the exhaust when heater boxes are not used.
Also used to refer to the J-shaped pipes internal to the 36hp and 40hp heater boxes as they can be replaced when damaged or rusted.

Term used interchangeably with emergency seat.  It can also refer to a small single-person fold down seat used in VW Emergency vehicles.

A popular dual carburetor supplier for higher performance Volkswagens

Introduced in 1955 as the VW version of a sporty car, it was last produced in 1974. Over a period of 19 years 365,912 coupes and 79,326 convertibles were manufactured.

Panel on VW Buses used to cover the bottom of the rear seat or the side of the middle seat.  Standard equipment on VW Standard Microbuses and Deluxes.  Also used to refer to the two 2 or more hardboard panels mounted underneath the dash board on a VW Bus.

A term commonly used to describe a vehicle that is sold in parts with the notion that someone could complete it by assembling it in their garage or backyard with parts from a specific donor car. The Beetle was a popular choice for a donor car and kits based off of the Beetle include the Meyers Manx, Porsche Speedster replicas, and the Bradley GT. The term does carry some negative connotations due to the build quality that some cars receive.

Most often confused with a standard Microbus, the Kombi (model 23) is basically a Panel Bus with windows and seats. The Kombi (combination vehicle) has three windows down each side (in addition to the passenger/drivers doors) was painted in solid colors and was not fitted with any interior panels behind the front cabin area or any of the molding or trim found on a Deluxe Microbus.  A middle and rear seat were also fitted to the Kombi, but there were no other interior amenities in the cargo area. It could even be ordered with a sunroof!  The Kombi was used as the base model for Westfalia in the production of Campers (SO42 and SO44) as well as some Emergency vehicles.

Refers to the size of the rear axle nut and reduction box design on a 1964-67 Bus.  A large nut reduction box uses a 46 mm axle nut and has a gear ratio of 1.26:1.

Long block refers to the bare engine, including the engine case, heads, crankshaft, camshaft, and pistons.  It does includes any external accessories such as intake manifolds, carburetors, generator/alternator, or fan shroud.

Raised or depressed slots in body panels, usually for the use of inducting air. Was also used as a customizationoption commonly seen back in the 80s.

Bucket-style seat used on VW sedans where the seat back rises only to the mid-back.  Used through the 1967 model year on US-delivered vehicles.

Bolt used to mount the wheel to the brake drum or disc brake rotor.

Option code that denoted something that installed on a VW.  Can refer to standard equipment for an export market, such as a speedometer in MPH for the USA.

Suspension on models such as the Super Beetle that uses a gas shock and coil spring mounted to a lower control arm for independent front suspension.

The typical Standard or Microbus. A mid-range passenger Bus appointed with a headliner, full interior panels and 3 passenger seats. Available in 7, 8, and 9-seat versions. Two-tone paint came standard.

Chrome or aluminum trim that often runs the length of a VW, used for both protective and appearance purposes.

The sheet metal part of the chassis that forms the hump where the forward bulkhead of the car rests.

A front beam that has had a section removed from the center to decrease the total width.  One method of lowering a vehicle while still retaining the ability to run larger or stock width rims without the tires rubbing on the inner fenderwells.

New Old Stock. A part made by VW or by an original supplier to VW and never installed on a vehicle.  Preferably in it’s original packaging, though not absolutely necessary to be considered NOS.  Any deviation would render the item NOT NOS.  NOS parts can be in various conditions, depending on how they were stored over the years, although most people consider an NOS item to be in mint condition.

Term for the front of a VW.  Most commonly used when referring to a Bus.

Front piece of the transmission case that houses the hockey stick.

Slang term for Notchback.

A Type 3 version having a conventional rear-deck treatment, rather than the smooth sweep of the Fastback or the station-wagon-like tail of the Squareback.

Mechanical device in the speedometer that indicates how many miles a vehicle has traveled.

Original Equipment

Original Equipment Manufacturer

Original German – Term used to describe a vehicle, part, or characteristic (such as paint) in original condition.

Center mount for wiper blades on a pre-68 Bus when you open the Safari Windows

Term used to describe Volkswagen parts or condition that are the same as when the vehicle was new from the VW factory.  For example: paint, engine, upholstery, etc. Desirable among many stock enthusiasts. Slang: OG.

Metal support that comes outward from the main frame rails on VW Buses.

1953-1957 Beetle that used curved glass in the shape of an oval for the rear window.

Additional bumper pieces introduced for the Export markets, such as the USA, to provide additional vehicle protection as well as an additional level of trim on a VW.  Also available as an optional extra for markets where it was not a standard feature.

Slang for Floorpan.

Tray that mounts underneath the dashboard in order to hold additional items up front.  Often made of bamboo or a mesh with a metal frame.  Most package trays were meant to house light items such as gloves or maps within easy each.

Slang term for the Type 3/Type 4 engine. The term originates from the flat design of the engine, where the fan is bolted to the end of the crankshaft, where the crankshaft pulley would normally appear on the typical Type 1 upright engine.  The fan shroud and other details were also relocated, producing a flat or “pancake” design.

Basic Bus model without seat or windows in the rear compartment.  Most often used for commercial purposes.

Somewhat interchangeable term with package tray, a parcel tray also refer to the metal tray mounted underneath the dash in a Split Screen (pre-1968) Bus. Also see bamboo tray.

Slang term for the VW Beetle and Ghia exhaust that has two chrome exhaust tips.

Nickname for the front turn signals used on 1958-63 Beetles.

Small valve used to control the flow of liquid or gas.  Used on early Volkswagens before a fuel gauge was standard equipment.  Also see Fuel Tap

Pickup is a light duty truck. All standard VW pickups had three gates and a loading platform unobstructed by wheel wells.

Slang term for early Beetle fenders where a metal pipe was used from the body to the headlight buckets to contain the headlight wiring.

Commonly used slang term for the taillight housing on Split Window Beetles from 1943 -1952, however it was still used by some until 1966.

Side windows that are hinged so they can swing out for ventilation. M code 114 gets you 6 of these on pre-67 buses.

Describes the small or large fiberglass top that can be popped up and a Camper Bus.

A sports car produced by a collaboration between VW and Porsche, introduced in September, 1969. It was a mid-engined two-seater with a Targa top as standard equipment. The 914 was marketed as a “Porsche” in North America, and as a “VW-Porsche” elsewhere. The 914/4 used the 4-cylinder, 1.7-liter Type 4 engine and also running gear from the Type 4, while the 914/6 used Porsche’s 6-cylinder, 2-liter 911T engine, plus 911 suspension, brakes, and wheels.

Pulley is basically a wheel with a groove for a belt used to improve leverage and transmit power from one device to another such as driving the generator and fan on a VW.

Side area on the body behind the front seats.  The area below the rear seat quarter windows orpop-outs.

Generic term for any convertible.  Refers to the fabric top opening of a sunroof.

Rear center area on a VW.  On a Beetle, the U-shaped lower portion of the rear clip.  On an early Bus, the removable metal piece bolted to both corners.

Area on a Beetle from the bottom of the rear window downward.  Similar sized areas on other VW types.

Opening rear door on various VWs – Buses, Squarebacks, etc..  Usually contains a window.

Slang term to describe the gauges used in 1961 to mid-1964 VW Type 3s.  They had red/orange needles as opposed to the later white needle gauges.

Additional gear boxes, primarily used on swing-axle VW Buses, that reduce the transmission gearing to provide additional torque at lower speeds at the sacrifice of top speed.  This allows a smaller VW engine to be able to push a large amount of cargo down the road.  As a side benefit, they provided additional ground clearance.

Electrical component of the VW charging system the regulator keeps the generator output at a common level. 7.4v for 6v vehicles and 13v for 12v vehicles.  See also Window regulator.

Switchable valve used on the bottom of the gas tank befoer gas gauges were standard.  The valve had two intake tubes: A tall one and a short one. As the gasoline level in the tank drops, your car began to sputter from loss of gas, at which point the driver would turn a lever (Beetle/Ghia) or pull the reserve cable (Bus) switching the valve to the shorter tube which was still submerged in gasoline.

Right-hand drive.

Term used for early Beetle doors where there is a metal “rib” visible above the door panel on the inside.

Aluminum or steel frame that provides a framework for the tire; wheels.  Common Volkswagen rims include: Radars, Raders, Sprint Stars, Fuchs, etc.

Outside area of a VW Beetle, Type 3, or other sedan, to the exterior of the heater channel, underneath the front doors.  On a VW Bus, the area under the cargo doors or a similar area on the other side where a Double Door
Bus might have cargo doors.

Accessory rack for the roof, used to carry luggage or other cargo.

Model of  the named Type 181 aka the Thing

Optional opening front windshield for the pre-1968 Split-screen Bus.  Often standard issue in the more humid climates, such as South America and Australia.

Nickname for the 23-Window Deluxe Microbus in Europe.

VW-based off-road vehicle, often consisting of a tubular frame and 1-4 seats for sand usage.

Term to indicate a solid roof vehicle as opposed to a ragtop or convertible.

Semi-Automatic, aka Autostick, had a torque converter and an electrically-actuated, vacuum-operated dry clutch wired to an articulating gearshift lever. The engine oil pump has a second external section to pump automatic transmission fluid from a reservoir (under the fender on Bugs and inside the engine compartment on Ghias) through the torque converter and back to act as an rpm/ speed sensitive, hydraulic “wet-clutch” like most fully-automatic transmissions use. This common option was started in ’68 and gave excellent drivability, economy and ease of use for beginners and partially-disabled people.  This should not be confused with the fully automatic transmission used on Type 3s and later model Buses.

Turn signals used before flashers were in general usage, these arms pop-up from the body of the vehicle and lights up via a small bulb to indicate you wish to turn.  Used through the 1960 models in Europe and else where.  Until 1955 in the USA.

Short block refers to the bare engine including the engine case, crankshaft, and pistons.  It does not include the heads or any external accessories such as intake manifolds, carburetors, generator/alternator, or fan shroud.

A slang term for 1970-up Type 3’s.  Refers to the shape of the front apron.

VW Pick up truck produced beginning in 1952.  3-person seating up front.  8 foot x 4 foot bed with 3 drop down side gates.  Often accessorized with a Tilt, aka “hoops and canvas”

The early style of head which has only one intake hole (or port) which splits off into two separate ports internally to each intake valve.

Slang term for all pre-’70 Type 3’s. Refers to downward slant of front hood. See alsoshark nose.

Refers to the size of the rear axle nut and reduction box design on a pre-1964 Bus.  A small nut reduction box uses a 36 mm axle nut and has a gear ratio of 1.39:1.

Slang for 15″ Beetle wheels that are “smooth” on the outside – they have no slots

1956-61 Beetle taillights

Slang term for the front or rear rubber suspension stops

OE manufacturer or VW parts.  Usually associated with carburetors.

Slang for Speedometer.

Gauge on vehicle which determines speed, measured either in mph or kph.

Portion of the front-end around which each brake drum or rotor rotates.  Connects to the front beam.  Also see drop spindle

VW transmission used from 1953-1960 (1959 in Buses). Non-synchromesh, straight-cut first gear that required you to stop before engaging first gear. Case was split down the center like an engine case.

Any bus, transporter, microbus, panel, kombi, single or double-cab of the Volkswagen Type II description with a manufacture date prior to 1968 (e.g. 1967 and earlier).  Refers to the divided front windshield.

First mass production run of the Beetle.  Used two pieces of flat glass for the rear windows

Nickname for a 1949 through 1967 Transporter with a two-piece divided windshield.  Also, the nickname for a pre-1953 Beetle sedan with a two-piece divided rear window. See Split-screen or Split-window.

Slang term used to describe the long version of the pop-out window latch used on pre-67 buses. The latch is chrome and looks like a spoon.

Type of rim

Slang term for Squareback.

Slang term for the 58-up Beetle.  As opposed to Oval-Window or Split-Window

The Type 3 3-door sedan.  Also known as the Variant.  Produced from 1962-1973.

The typical Standard or Microbus. A mid-range passenger Bus appointed with a headliner, full interior panels and 3 passenger seats. Available in 7, 8, and 9-seat versions. Two-tone paint came standard.

A damping device designed to inhibit an oscillation of a vehicle steering mechanism, similar to a shock absorber in nature.
On VWs, a shimmy in the front end is often caused by a worn out steering damper.

Straight-pipe exhaust with no muffler.  Often very loud, originally intended for racing use only.

Denotes a vehicle that is stock in appearance and mechanics.  Term often used incorrectly.

A variation of the Beetle. Characteristics include a big-nose front hood, larger trunk space, McPherson strut front suspension, curved windshield (’73-later), and modern dashboard (also ’73-later). ’71-72 (and ’70 overseas) will have a flat windshield and typical Beetle dashboard.

Single Vacuum Dual Advance .  A distributor with both vacuum and mechanical advances but only one vacuum can.

Pre 1968 VW rear end design.  As opposed to IRS.

Original VW Bus options that allowed the driver’s and sometimes passenger seat, to swivel into the cargo area.  Involves a cut-down design of the front seat bulkhead.  Installed only on walk-through Buses.

Company that produces semaphores and other electrical items for Volkswagen and other vehicles.  In the 1950’s SWF was part of the company Gustav Rau GmbH.  Gustav Rau started SWF – Spezial Werkzeugfabrik Feuerbach, in 1923.  In 1973 it was sold to ITT. In 1998 SWF was taken over by Valeo

Four-wheel drive system for VW Transporters offered as an option on the Vanagon andEurovan Bus and Trucks and also later Quantums, Golfs, and Passats.

VW transmission design introduced in 1960-1961 (depending on model) where the four forward gears were fully synchronized. Tunnel-case transmission design.

Beetle

Bus

Type 3 Ghia,  The Type 34 was the flagship model of the entire VW line. It was the most expensive VW available, the fastest, and the most luxurious.  The Type 34 was built from September 1961 through July 1969.  There were a total of 42,505 Coupes built, all at the Karmann factory inOsnabrúck, Germany.  See Razor Edge Ghia.

Model Code for the 411 and 412 automobiles. It also refers to the Type 4 engine used in those automobiles as well as the used used in late-model Buses.

Handle used for decklid on a Beetle or rear hatch on a Split-screen Bus.  So named because it is shaped like a T.

Volkswagen type code for the first generation of VW Buses – 1949-1967 – the Split-Window.

Volkswagen type code for the second generation of VW Buses – 1968 through 1979 – the Bay Window or Bread Loaf.

Volkswagen type code for the third generation of VW Buses – 1980 through 1992 – the Vanagon.

Volkswagen type code for the fourth generation of VW Buses – the Eurovan.

Electrical or mechanical gauge that indicates RPMs (revolutions per minute) of the engine.

Late 1960s exhaust tip accessory.  See photos below for details

A Kubelwagen-like Volkswagen (Type 181) designed for and used by the German military until 1991. Produced between the 1968 and 1980, during which about 141,000 were made. Only imported to the U.S. during the peak years of 1973 and 1974.

Slang term for the center mount brake-light used on pre-1958 VW Buses.  This was actually the only brake light, not a “third” brake light as the term might indicate.

Engine Tin, Metal duct work and covering pieces that provides routing of air to cool the engine as well as providing access to some areas of the engine, such as the valves, for adjusting.

Factory toolkit which came with every VW, tools included and bag varied.

Refers to the top portion of an engine including the fuel system, valve covers, heads, cylinders, pistons, valves, rings and other components that generate the power that propels the vehicle.  Also see bottom end

Metal bar that typically hooks over the front beam of a VW so it may be towed by another vehicle.

Slang term given to the overrider portion of the bumpers on VW Beetles.

Metal bar with ball so that a vehicle can tow a trailer or other vehicle from the back.

Metal “arms” that extend outward from the front beam to hold the front brakes as well as the front shocks.  They pivot on roller bearing inside the front beam to allow for up and down travel.

Slang term for transmission

An assembly of parts including the speed-changing gears and the propeller shaft by which the power is transmitted from an automobile engine to a live axle.  Also, the speed-changing gears in such an assembly.

Name for any Type II Volkswagen: deluxes, kombis, trucks, panels, etc.  See Bus

Term for the area located underneath the bed of a Single Cab.  VW literature uses various terms for this loading area, including “lower compartment”, “lower loading compartment”, “treasure compartment”, and “treasure chest”.

Used to describe several things.  Trim levels of a VW vehicle, for example, Deluxe.  Chrome or aluminum moulding trim.

Standard or Accessory ring mounted on the rim and held in by the hubcap. Commonly made of aluminum and polished to a chrome-like finish.  Also see Beauty Ring

Style of VW transmission used from 1960/61-onward. Successor to the Split-case. Single piece main transmission case. Full synchromesh on all forward gears.

Indicates a complete engine ready for installation, including the generator, coil, and all other necessary accessories.

Model Code for the Beetle

Standard ragtop sunroof Beetle

Deluxe ragtop sunroof Beetle

See Thing

The Right-hand drive model of the Thing.  See Safari and Trekker.

Model Code for the Bus or Transporter.

Panelvan model code

Microbus model code

Kombi model code

Deluxe model code

Truck mode code: Single Cab and Double Cab

Ambulance model code

Microbus (7-seater) model code

Model Code for the Squareback, Fastback, Notchback, and Type 3 Ghia

The Type 34 was the flagship model of the entire VW line. It was the most expensive VW available, the fastest, and the most luxurious.  The Type 34 was built from September 1961 through July 1969.  There were a total of 42,505 Coupes built, all at the Karmann factory inOsnabrúck, Germany.  See Razor Edge Ghia.

See Type 3 Ghia

Model Code for the 411 and 412 automobiles. It also refers to the Type 4 engine used in those automobiles as well as the used used in late-model Buses.

Aftermarket Bus accessory, similar in nature to ambulance fans, that allows additional fresh air to travel through the overhead air intake to the front seat passengers.  The uni-vent is desirable to many VW Bus owners as it allows you to control the direction of the air flow.

Generic term referring to the Transporter.  Preferred term is Bus.

The T3 generation of the Volkswagen Type 2, also known as the Vanagon in the U.S., as the Transporter or Caravelle in Europe, and also to some in Britain and Ireland as the T25, was built from 1980 until 1991. It was the last of the rear-engine Volkswagens.

A situation where gasoline overheats and boils inside the fuel pump or carburetor of a hot engine, causing bubbles to form and the fuel flow to stop. Symptoms are stalling or hard starting.

Canadian and European name for the Squareback.  Also used by VW for all car-based wagon/estate models in Germany to this date (Passat Variant, Golf Variant, etc.)

OEM clock and gauge manufacturer for VW.

A ring shaped device used on the rear of the shroud in front of the cooling fan to increase air velocity, and increase cooling. Used mostly on Fuel Injected Type 1’s.

Slang for Convertible

Vehicle Identification Number – can be found on the metal plate inside the front of the car (boot) and/or on the chassis is also sometimes printed on the dashboard

German for “people’s car”.

The Volkswagen Company.  “Volkswagen Aktien Gesellschaft”

Electric potential or potential difference expressed in volts.  Volkswagens are either 6-volt or 12-volt.

Abbreviation for walk-through

A walk-through model bus is equipped with two individual front seats, rather than a bench style seat.  This allows you to “walk-through” to the passenger/cargo area.  This model is often equipped with a shorter 2/3 length middle seat that allows you to access the rear seat as well.  The shorter middle seat is a different Bus model (as opposed to another option) so not all walk-thru front seat Buses are guaranteed to have a short middle seat.  The walk-through option was a standard option from 1958-onward, although there are a few earlier examples.  Most ’58-’59 walk-through Buses that have survived are Panelvans.  Walk-thru Buses have the spare tire mounted on the rear deck in a recessed compartment.  1967 and earlier walk-throughs use a unique lugnut to hold the spare tire in place.

German: ” water-boxer.”  The water-cooled version of the Vanagon.

To indicate an engine cooled by water as opposed to air-cooled.

Abbreviation for Waterboxer aka Wasserboxer

Supplier of higher performance dual carburetors for the Volkswagen motor.

German company with a long history that partnered with VW to convert buses into Campmobiles.  All campers are not Westfalias or “Westys”.

Slang for Westfalia

Metal that surrounds the wheels as viewed from the exterior.

Slang name for stock 5 lug rims, refers to the wide bolt pattern (5x205mm lug bolt pattern).

  • aka 5-Lug
  • aka Wide 5s

 

Another name for stock 5 lug rims, refers to the wide bolt pattern

Official VW name for the aluminum rods mounted on the inside of the rear windows on Deluxe model buses to prevent luggage/cargo from hitting the rear windows. See slang term: Jailbars.

Assembly mounted inside the door that allows the window to be rolled up and down via a window crank and a gear.

The German word for the “semaphore” style turn signal indicators

  • aka “trafficators” (British English)
  • aka “idiot sticks” (Army slang)

Semaphores were the standard on Volkswagens from the 1930s prototypes through until 1960 (in Europe). They were made illegal by the German safe pedestrian laws in 1961. Semaphores were last seen on US bound cars in 1955.

The set of wires mounted in a VW that carry power to the various accessories and the engine, as well as providing needed grounding.

The plant in Germany where the Volkswagen passenger car was produced.  Total area 8,321,000 Sq m of which 950,000 Sq m is built up.  (as of 1964)  Split-screen Volkswagen Buses were produced here until March of 1956.

Slang term for 1961-65 Type 3 dashboard cover, so called because the edge matches up with the trim pieces located above the door panels.

Chassis number prefix (first 3 digits of standard 17-digit VIN than began in 1980) for VW German-built cars.
“W” = Country of production (West) Germany
“VW” = Volkswagen car builder.
Also the prefix for Mexican Beetles sold in Europe, as well as European New Beetles
(instead of 3VW, which VW of Mexico used for American-sold New Beetles.).

aka Convertible Top Boot

Abbreviation for Air Cooled Volkswagen

Most often refers to the way that classic VWs engines were cooled. The heads and oil are cooled by air passing over them, propelled by a fan rotated by an attachment to the engine crankshaft.

Related: Air Cooled, Air-cooled

A “U” shaped body panel on the front and rear of the Beetle, between the bottoms of the fenders. On a VW Bus, it usually refers to a piece of metal above the exhaust at the rear.
related terms: Front Apron, Rear Apron

The “Autostick” was a semi-automatic transmission offered as an option in Beetles and Karmann Ghias. The Autostick transmission combined a torque converter (which lets the engine run while in gear so you can drive the Beetle like it has an fully automatic transmission), paired with a 3 speed standard transmission that uses a vaccum-operated clutch to shift between gears without manually depressing a clutch pedal. To operate, you put your hand on the gearshift, which triggered the clutch to disengage, then you move the shifter to the gear you want, let go, and the clutch re-engages. The torque converter. Autostick trannys had 3 speeds: super low, low and high.

This is a machining process in which the bore in which the crankshaft  journals are trued.  Typically they are bored .020″, .040″, .060″ or .080″ over the standard bore size.  Most machine shops will stamp this number at the top of the case under where the oil cooler mounts.  Whenever this is done, you will need to use bearings with an over-sized O.D. to ensure a proper fit.

The roof support metal on either side of the front windshield.  Also see B-pillar, C-pillar, and D-pillar

Version of the Type 181 Thing. The brightly-colored Acapulco had a fringed top, running boards, and a large rack for luggage. It was intended to be a tourist vehicle around Mexico’s resort hotels, hence the name.

Optional items sold either with a VW, either factory or dealer installed, or asaftermarket parts.  Examples include: Blaupunkt or Sapphire radio, mudflaps, roof rack, gravel guards, gas heater, or rims.

Abbreviation for Air-Cooled Volkswagen

Small nut/bolt/plate arrangement that could be welded into a VW Beetle or other model front end to allow for height adjustment.  See dropped beam

Denotes a product produced for the Volkswagen automobile not by Volkswagen itself.

German: The acronym for “Aktien Gesellschaft” – in Germany, a public stock corporation, as in Volkswagen AG.

Typically refers to the cooling design used by the Volkswagen engine where the heads and oil are cooled by air propelled by a fan which was, in turn, rotated at a given speed by an attachment to the engine crankshaft.

Bolt with a hexagonal socket head that uses an allen aka hex key to tighten or loosen it.

Bottom “U” shaped piece of metal on the front and rear of the Beetle, between the bottoms of the fenders.  On a Bus, it usually refers to the bottom piece of metal in the rear above the exhaust.  See also crank apron.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

Semi-automatic transmission used in Beetles and Karmann Ghias from 1968-1975.  This IRS transaxle uses a torque converter, paired with a 3 speed standard transmission, which uses a vaccum-operated clutch to shift between gears. Put your hand on the gearshift, the Gearshift “Points” close and the clutch disengages. Then move the shifter to the gear you want, let go (points open), and the clutch engages. The torque converter lets the engine run while in gear so you can drive the Beetle like it has an fully automatic transmission in it. 3 speeds were used: super low, low and high. 4 Speed drivers are often shocked when the car “dies” when they rest their hand on the shift knob! This transaxle is notoriously problematic, but they are wonderful when they are working properly (Rare).

The Official Model name for Type 111, 113, 115 Volkswagens.
Related: Bug

There are thin, round pieces metal that are placed beneath the cylinders when building an engine.  These move the cylinders out; increasing the deck height and LOWERING the CR.  using these is a popular way to adjust the CR to the desired amount.

The size of the inside diameter (I.D.) of any machined hole.  Typically this refers to the I.D. of the cylinders.

Machining process in which a bore is INCREASED in size.  Typically this refers to increasing the I.D. of the cylinders

Refers to all the parts as an assembly within and including the engine case.  Normally folks will not just rebuilt the bottom-end since you must disassemble the top end to get to it.

The bent, flexible tube in which the clutch cable passes.  Located on the driver’s side of the transmission.  This tube should sag between 1″ – 1 3/4″ in order to provide smooth clutch engagement.

A small box found on high performance engines.  Helps separate oil from crank case vapors.  It also provides a central point in which to route breather lines from the case and heads prior to being routed to the carbs.

This mark on most aftermarket crank pulleys, refers to the compression stroke of the #2 & #4 pistons.  Set it to the seam in your case, then pull off the distributor cap and note which plug wire it’s pointing to.  That’s the piston ready to fire.

The roof support metal between the front door window and the rear side window.  Also see A-pillar, C-pillar, and D-pillar

Nickname for the 34mm version of the Dellorto carburetor.

Nickname for the smaller version of the Weber carburetor.

Term to describe a variety of chrome, metal, enamel or other type badges applied to the body of a VW.  Some examples are Auto Club related, dealer badges, scripts, or mileage awards.

A Beetle sedan, typically with fiberglass fenders and a hood, that has been modified for off-road usage.  Front and rear aprons are usually cut to accommodate the replacement front end and to increase engine access in the rear.

Plastic-like material used for various items in early VWs such as dashboard faces and turn signal relay housings.  An item cam be checked if it is Bakelite by using a Q-tip with 409.  The Q-tip will turn yellow.

Flexible coupling in a vehicle’s suspension that connects the control arm to the steering knuckle. A ball joint is so named because of its ball-and-socket construction. Some are designed to never require grease while others should be lubed every six months. As the joint wears, it becomes loose. The result is suspension noise and wheel misalignment.

Somewhat interchangeable term with package tray, a parcel tray also refer to the metal tray mounted underneath the dash in a Split Screen (pre-1968) Bus.

Any Bus produced through February, 1955. The term Barndoor is credited to Jeff Walters and is in reference to the large decklid found on those vehicles. Barndoor Type 2’s can also be recognized by the lack of an overhead fresh air vent over the windshield, 16 inch rims, the lack of full dash on non-deluxe models, non-opening rear window hatch (a few exceptions); not to mention miscellaneous switches, latches, seats and body panels that are unique to the Barndoor bus and no other.  The term is often mistakenly used to refer to the 2 cargo doorson the side of a Bus.

Redesigned 36 hp engine used for a short period in the VW Bus before the more formal 40 hp engine was used.

Area of the floor pan underneath the battery.  Often rusted out due to battery acid damage, this area is the most common needing welding or rust repair on a Volkswagen.

The steering wheel used in the Deluxe Beetles from very late 1949 until 1955.

All buses produced after July, 1967 (1968 model year) to 1979.  Also know as the T2. The name refers to its large, curved, one-piece windshield, differing from the first generation split screens. Also see Bread-Loaf.

Ring of metal, typically made of aluminum, that mounts near the tire in order to enhance the appearance of a vehicle.  Polished to a chrome-like appearance.  Standard on Deluxe Buses as well as some other early VWs, such as Ghias, before the introduction of trim rings.

Nick name for the Volkswagen (people’s car) – due to the striking similarity between the VW Beetle’s bodywork and the appearance of the insect “beetle” the name has been adopted throughout the world with Beetle in the USA and UK, Kafer in Germany and Coccinelle in France, etc..  The Bug was produced in various forms in Germany from 1939 until 1977. By the time German production ceased in Wolfsburg (the car continued to be built by Volkswagen de México for some time, and in limited production by Volkswagen do Brasil) over nineteen million cars had been delivered, making it far and away the single best-selling automobile model of all time. Designed by the Porsche Büro under Dr. Ferdinand Porsche, it was to become the world’s first truly universal car since the Ford Model-T, which it eventually outsold.

Commonly refers to the full length front seat of a Bus.  Seats 3 people.

Reinforcement used on sunroof buses (21/23-window or buses with an optional sunroof) and double doorbuses to add additional frame rigidity.

Refers to the size of the rear axle nut and reduction box design on a 1964-67 Bus.  A large nut reduction box uses a 46 mm axle nut and has a gear ratio of 1.26:1.

A solid chunk of metal, for use in machining or fabricating a part.  Billet parts are often used in demanding applications such as racing or military vehicles and are desirable to customizers, who don’t really need the strength and durability of billet parts but who like the appearance. Billet parts were frequently used in the creation of the Cal-Look.

Slang for wiper blades.

Metal plate used to cover hole in dash if radio is not installed.

On Buses, a number stamped behind the passenger front seat before the usage of the M-Code plate.  This number was used for tracking the body during the production process but has no useful meaning or direct relationship to the Chassis Number

The front or rear lift-up portion of an auto body that allows access to the engine or trunk space.

OEM supplier to VW.  Commonly associated with electrical parts such as spark plugs, coils, points, fog lights, and generators.

Refers to the bottom portion of an engine including the crankshaft, connecting rods and bearings, cam, and other components that deliver power to the transmission and rear wheels.

Flexible tube for the clutch cable that travels from the hard tube in the floorpan to a mount on the transmission.  Allows the clutch cable to flex up and down when the transmission shifts position due to driving forces.  The tube should have enough of a bend in it so that the 2 ends of the tube stay in place when the transmission movement is at it’s maximum.  This is referred to as the “sag” and prevents clutch “chatter” by keeping the distance between the clutch pedal and the transmission constant through its range of movement.

A nickname for the 1968 – 1979 Transporter. It is a reference to its resemblance to a loaf of bread. See Bay Window.

Type of rim characterized by: flat spokes, often painted black.  5-lug design.  These were originally made with magnesium and were therefore very light.  Currently being reproduced.  Originals have become very valuable to collectors.

Style used on buses 1954 – 1957.

Nick name for the Volkswagen (people’s car) – due to the striking similarity between the VW Beetle’s bodywork and the appearance of the insect “beetle” the name has been adopted throughout the world with Beetle in the USA and UK, Kafer in Germany and Coccinelle in France, etc..  The Bug was produced in various forms in Germany from 1939 until 1977. By the time German production ceased in Wolfsburg (the car continued to be built by Volkswagen de México for some time, and in limited production by Volkswagen do Brasil) over nineteen million cars had been delivered, making it far and away the single best-selling automobile model of all time. Designed by the Porsche Büro under Dr. Ferdinand Porsche, it was to become the world’s first truly universal car since the Ford Model-T, which it eventually outsold.

Area of the Volkswagen Beetle directly in front of the dashboard.  On Buses, the panel of metal directly behind the front seat.

Indicative of the pointed turn signals used on VW Buses from 1955-1961 in the USA marketplace as well as the pointed turn signals used on early Oval Beetles, Ghias, and Type 3s.

General term describing the VW Transporter series of vehicles – Panelvans, Kombis, Standards/Microbuses, andDeluxes.

A part of the short block, the cam is responsible for timing the opening and closing of the valves as well as determining how far they open up.

A small plug that fits between the case halves at the end of the cam on the forward end of the engine.  It MUST be installed with the flat side forward (out) so that the cam will not ever have the possibility of  rubbing on it.

A metering device which meters fuel into the in-coming combustion air.  Carbs work directly off of vacuum.

A double threaded insert which is used for the head studs to help prevent the threads from getting pulled out over time.

The roof support metal between the rear side window and the rear window.  On a car with 4 pillars, the rearmost pillar may be called the D-Pillar.  Also see A-pillar, B-pillar, and D-pillar

Model name for the convertible coupe version of the Beetle or the Karmann-Ghia Often casually abbreviated as “Cabrio”. Most of the Volkswagen Cabriolets were made by the coachbuilder Karmann. Cabriolet original referred to “A two-wheeled, one-horse carriage that has two seats and a folding top.”  The word Cabriolet originates from the French while the Germans used Kabriolett.

The “California Look”. Originally began in Southern California back in the 1950s. The Cal-Look typically consists of a radical lowering job, removal of chrome, bumpers, and other trim, producing a more smooth-looking vehicle.

The Canadian Standard (sometimes called Canadian Custom) was a class of Type I’s unique to the Canadian marketplace. They were effectively dressed up Standards. Well over 99% of the Beetles destined for the export market were Deluxe or Export models. The Canadian Standard can be identified by some features of the Deluxe such as hydraulic brakes, export engines and chrome bumpers with towel bars, combined with features of the Standard, such as small headliner, non chrome breeze windows, no chrome on window rubber, no chrome on running boards. The Canadian dealers usually added a gas heater, block heater and radio as dealer options.

Area located behind the front seat area of a Bus.  Commonly contains either two seats for a Passenger vehicleor two seats or a wide open loading bay for Commercial Vehicles.

Side loading doors for a Bus.  Usually consists of a set of two opposite opening doors or a single sliding door assembly.  See also Double Door

Metal flooring in the rear of a Bus, commonly termed the Cargo Area

Aftermarket aluminum wheel popular with the racers on and off-road.

Floor pan and superstructure of a VW automobile.  Refers to the complete rolling assembly underneath the body.

Identification number stamped into the Chassis of a VW vehicle.  Usually indicates the month/year of manufacture.

Flat piece of metal on hinge side of door that prevents the door from opening too far out and damaging the hinges and door sheet metal. Cannot be used with 1-piece window glass.  After market door stops are made of thick cable which flexes thus enabling the use of 1-piece windows.

Slang term referring to Chop-top.

This term refers to the practice of lowering the roof on the body of the vehicle by cutting portions of the frame and door frames and reinstalling custom glass for a custom look.

P or T-shaped metal “key” used to open the decklid on 1955-1965 Buses, the gas door on 1952-1966 Trucks and 1955-1966 Buses, and the Treasure Chest on 1952-1966 Trucks.

Used on ’67 and ’68 Beetles and Type 3s to improve handling in corners or under a heavy load before the introduction of IRS.

Engine Bore (mm)
Engine Stroke (mm)
Deck Height (inches - 0.040 recommended)
Head Chamber Volume (CC)
Compression Ratio(Enter "8.5" for 8.5:1 CR)
Number of cylinders
Engine Size / Displacement
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