{"product_id":"empi-serpentine-belt-pulley-system-vw-type-1-polished-black-red-blue","title":"EMPI Serpentine Belt Pulley System | Air-Cooled VW Type 1 Upright Engines | Polished, Black, Red or Blue Billet Aluminum (17-2811-0)","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cb\u003eEMPI Serpentine Belt Pulley System for Air-Cooled VW Type 1 Engines\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe stock VW V-belt is the weak link on an air-cooled engine. It stretches, it squeals, and if it jumps off at high rpm the cooling fan stops with it. The EMPI Serpentine Belt Pulley System replaces it with a modern \u003cb\u003e5-rib serpentine belt\u003c\/b\u003e running on CNC-machined billet aluminum pulleys and an adjustable idler. The ribbed belt grips across its full width, so it runs \u003cb\u003equieter and smoother, lasts longer and holds on at high rpm\u003c\/b\u003e, which is why EMPI calls it a must for hi-revving engines. It bolts to your existing alternator\/generator stand. There's no case machining and no welding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePick your finish from the menu: \u003cb\u003emirror-polished\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eblack anodized\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003ered anodized\u003c\/b\u003e or \u003cb\u003eblue anodized\u003c\/b\u003e. The pulleys are machined the same way in every finish. Each one has permanent laser-etched numbers that won't wear off like paint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Benefits\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eSerpentine drive:\u003c\/b\u003e a 5-rib, 5\/8 in wide poly-V belt (EMPI 17-2811-1, size 5PK918) replaces the stock V-belt. It has more contact area and less slip.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eAdjustable idler pulley:\u003c\/b\u003e belt tension is set at the idler, not by stacking shims behind the generator pulley half as on a stock setup.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eMore cooling air:\u003c\/b\u003e the crank pulley is about 6-3\/4 in and the alternator\/generator pulley about 3-3\/4 in. That spins the fan roughly 1.8 turns per crank revolution, against about 1.69 stock (JBugs). You get more airflow through the fan shroud for a small extra power draw.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eLaser-etched timing numbers\u003c\/b\u003e on the crank pulley. Set and check ignition timing with a timing light.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eBolt-on:\u003c\/b\u003e mounts to the alternator\/generator stand with the hardware supplied. It works with a generator or an alternator.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eBillet aluminum:\u003c\/b\u003e CNC-machined, lighter than the stock stamped-steel and cast pulleys, and it looks the part on a show engine.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eGenuine EMPI.\u003c\/b\u003e Washburn's Metal is an authorized EMPI dealer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003eChoose Your Finish\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eFinish\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eEMPI Part #\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eUPC\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePolished aluminum\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e17-2811-0\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e707924381399\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBlack anodized\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e17-2911-0\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e707924381634\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRed anodized\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e18-1071-0\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e707924466447\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBlue anodized\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e18-1070-0\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e707924466430\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerformance is the same in every finish, so choose the one that suits your engine bay. Polished aluminum can be brought back with metal polish. Anodized finishes resist fingerprints and are easier to keep clean on a daily driver or a buggy that sees dirt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003eFitment\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis kit fits \u003cb\u003eall VW Type 1 (upright-fan) engine cases\u003c\/b\u003e, 1200 to 1600cc and stroker builds on the same case, with a \u003cb\u003ebolt-on alternator\/generator stand\u003c\/b\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eVW Beetle\u003c\/b\u003e 1961–1977\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eVW Super Beetle\u003c\/b\u003e 1971–1976\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eVW Karmann Ghia\u003c\/b\u003e 1961–1974\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eVW Bus \/ Type 2\u003c\/b\u003e 1961–1971 (Type 1 engine)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eVW Thing (Type 181)\u003c\/b\u003e 1973–1974\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eDune buggies, Baja Bugs, sand rails, Manx-style and trikes\u003c\/b\u003e running a Type 1 engine\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDoes NOT fit:\u003c\/b\u003e early engines with a \u003cb\u003efixed (cast-in) generator stand\u003c\/b\u003e, Type 3 \"pancake\" engines, Type 4 engines (including 1972-and-later Bus 1.7–2.0L and 914), or water-cooled VWs. If you're not sure what's in your car, send us a photo of the front of the engine and we'll tell you before you buy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat's in the Kit\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese are the parts EMPI's installation instructions call for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSerpentine crankshaft pulley with laser-etched timing numbers, crank bolt and washer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSerpentine alternator\/generator pulley with woodruff key, nut and washer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdler bracket with idler pulley (sealed bearings)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo replacement alternator stand studs, plus 8mm-1.25 nuts and washers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5-rib serpentine belt\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eManufacturer:\u003c\/b\u003e EMPI\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003ePart Numbers:\u003c\/b\u003e 17-2811-0 polished, 17-2911-0 black, 18-1071-0 red, 18-1070-0 blue\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eMaterial:\u003c\/b\u003e CNC-machined billet aluminum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eCrank pulley OD:\u003c\/b\u003e approx. 6-3\/4 in (177mm)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eAlternator\/generator pulley OD:\u003c\/b\u003e approx. 3-3\/4 in (95mm)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eDrive ratio:\u003c\/b\u003e approx. 1 : 1.8 (factory approx. 1 : 1.69)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eBelt:\u003c\/b\u003e 5-rib, 5\/8 in (15.875mm) wide, 918mm. EMPI replacement 17-2811-1, ref. 5PK918\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eIdler bearings:\u003c\/b\u003e sealed. EMPI replacement pair 17-2811-B\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eSold As:\u003c\/b\u003e Kit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eShipping Weight:\u003c\/b\u003e 4 lb\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003ePackage Dimensions:\u003c\/b\u003e 13 x 9 x 2.5 in\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003eInstallation Notes\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a driveway job with hand tools. Here is an outline of EMPI's instructions:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemove the alternator\/generator and crank pulleys, then the alternator and its stand.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRemove the two front stand studs and thread the new kit studs \u003cb\u003eall the way down\u003c\/b\u003e into the case.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRefit the stand with the new idler bracket: \u003cb\u003eears facing down, idler pulley toward the left side of the engine\u003c\/b\u003e. Secure it with the supplied 8mm-1.25 nuts and washers (12mm wrench).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRefit the alternator. Fit the crank pulley with the new bolt and washer, use \u003cb\u003eLoctite\u003c\/b\u003e on the bolt, and torque it to factory spec.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFit the alternator pulley with the supplied woodruff key, \u003cb\u003eraised hub facing out\u003c\/b\u003e. Make sure the key stays level in its groove, then torque it to factory spec.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLoosen the idler, slide it left, and route the belt with the \u003cb\u003eidler on the outside\u003c\/b\u003e. Slide the idler right to tension it to about \u003cb\u003e3\/8 in of side-to-side free play\u003c\/b\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eShop tips:\u003c\/b\u003e set timing again with a timing light after install, because your old pulley's notch is gone. Check that the belt sits squarely on all three pulleys. Then check tension again after the first heat cycle. A belt that's too tight is the fastest way to wear out the idler and alternator bearings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eWill this fit my 1970 Beetle?\u003c\/b\u003e Yes, provided it still has a Type 1 upright engine with the bolt-on alternator\/generator stand, which every 1961–1977 Beetle has from the factory.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eDoes it work with a generator or only an alternator?\u003c\/b\u003e Both. It bolts to the alternator\/generator stand, and the kit pulley fits either one with the supplied woodruff key.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eIs the belt included?\u003c\/b\u003e Yes. The kit comes with its 5-rib belt. EMPI 17-2811-1 is the replacement, and it's worth keeping a spare in the car.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eWill my engine run cooler?\u003c\/b\u003e The smaller top pulley spins the fan about 6% faster than stock (about 1.8 vs 1.69 turns per crank revolution), which moves more air. It also takes slightly more horsepower to drive.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eDo I have to remove the alternator stand?\u003c\/b\u003e Per EMPI's instructions, yes. The two front stand studs are replaced and the idler bracket mounts under the stand.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eIs the polished one better than the anodized ones?\u003c\/b\u003e No. The machining and performance are the same. Only the finish differs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eThe black one shows sold out. Can I still get it?\u003c\/b\u003e Black is currently backordered at EMPI. Contact us and we'll let you know as soon as it's back.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eCan I replace the idler bearings?\u003c\/b\u003e Yes. EMPI sells a sealed bearing pair, 17-2811-B, for these kits.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eAre you an authorized EMPI dealer?\u003c\/b\u003e Yes. Washburn's Metal is an authorized EMPI dealer, and this is a new, genuine EMPI kit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003eExplore Related Categories\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuilding out an air-cooled engine? Browse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/empi\"\u003eEMPI Parts\u003c\/a\u003e catalog, \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/engine\"\u003eEngine Parts\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/vw-beetle\"\u003eVW Beetle Parts\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dune-buggy\"\u003eDune Buggy \u0026amp; Manx Parts\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/all-vw-aircooled\"\u003eAll Air-Cooled VW\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cb\u003eProp 65 Warning\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e⚠ WARNING:\u003c\/b\u003e This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. For more information go to \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.P65Warnings.ca.gov\" rel=\"nofollow\"\u003ewww.P65Warnings.ca.gov\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cscript type=\"application\/ld+json\"\u003e{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Will the EMPI serpentine pulley system fit a 1970 VW Beetle?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes, provided it still has a Type 1 upright engine with the bolt-on alternator\/generator stand, which every 1961-1977 Beetle has from the factory.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Does it work with a generator or only an alternator?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Both. It bolts to the alternator\/generator stand, and the kit pulley fits either one with the supplied woodruff key.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Is the belt included?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes. The kit comes with its 5-rib belt. EMPI 17-2811-1 (5PK918) is the replacement.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Will my engine run cooler?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The smaller top pulley spins the fan about 6% faster than stock (about 1.8 vs 1.69 turns per crank revolution), which moves more air. It also takes slightly more horsepower to drive.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Do I have to remove the alternator stand?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Per EMPI's instructions, yes. The two front stand studs are replaced and the idler bracket mounts under the stand.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Is the polished version better than the anodized versions?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"No. The machining and performance are the same. Only the finish differs.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can I replace the idler bearings?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes. EMPI sells a sealed bearing pair, 17-2811-B, for these kits.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Is Washburn's Metal an authorized EMPI dealer?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes. This is a new, genuine EMPI kit.\"}}]}\u003c\/script\u003e","brand":"EMPI","offers":[{"title":"Polished","offer_id":48393820569715,"sku":"17-2811-0","price":273.51,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Red Anodized","offer_id":48393820602483,"sku":"18-1071-0","price":287.96,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Blue Anodized","offer_id":48393820635251,"sku":"18-1070-0","price":287.96,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black Anodized","offer_id":48393820668019,"sku":"17-2911-0","price":304.96,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0278\/2760\/1523\/files\/17-2811-0.jpg?v=1790033159","url":"https:\/\/www.washburnsmetal.com\/products\/empi-serpentine-belt-pulley-system-vw-type-1-polished-black-red-blue","provider":"Washburn's Metal","version":"1.0","type":"link"}