JP Group Heater Cable 920 mm | VW Vanagon 1980–1991 | OE 251 265 473 A (JP-8347-0)
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JP Group Heater Cable 920 mm — VW Vanagon (JP-8347-0)
Short answer: JP Group JP-8347-0 is a 920 mm heater control cable for the VW Vanagon, listed by EMPI for 1982–1991 1.6 diesel, 1.9 and 2.1 vans and by JP Group for the 1979–1992 T3. It replaces VW 251 265 473 A. JP ref. 8170501403. Sold each, new.
Part numbers: JP-8347-0 · VW OE 251 265 473 A · JP Group 8170501403 · UPC 707924526820
Fitment
| Years | Vehicle | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1982–1991 | VW Vanagon 1.6 diesel, 1.9 and 2.1 Wasserboxer (US) | Per EMPI fitment |
| 1979–1992 | VW Transporter T3 / T25 | JP Group catalog note "Vanagon 79–92" |
| 1980–1981 | VW Vanagon air-cooled 2.0 | Not confirmed — early vans used a different heater layout; compare length (920 mm) and ends with your old cable |
| 1968–1979 | VW Bay Window Bus | Does not fit |
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | JP Group (Denmark) |
| Part number | JP-8347-0 |
| VW OE reference | 251 265 473 A |
| JP Group reference | 8170501403 |
| UPC | 707924526820 |
| Length | 920 mm (36.2 in) |
| Type | Heater / heater valve control cable |
| Sold as | Each |
| Weight | Not published — shipping estimate 0.5 lb |
What's Included / Not Included
- Included: one 920 mm heater cable as pictured.
- Not included: heater valve, control lever assembly, clips, or the other heater cables in the van (Vanagons use several cables of different lengths).
Why It Matters
The Vanagon heater is controlled by a set of Bowden cables running from the dash levers to the flaps and the heater valve. Over thirty-plus years the inner wires corrode, kink and seize inside their sheaths, or snap at the end fittings. Symptoms are a heater lever that will not move, moves with no effect, or feels loose and floppy.
A stuck cable can leave the heater on full in summer or off in winter, and a seized cable often breaks the plastic dash lever when you force it. Replacing a tired cable restores smooth lever feel and full control of cabin heat and defrost — and it is far cheaper than replacing the control unit.
Length is the key identifier. VW used several different heater cable lengths in the Vanagon, so measure the old cable end to end before ordering. This one is 920 mm.
Installation Notes
- Note how the old cable is routed and clipped before you remove it, or take a photo.
- Set both the dash lever and the flap or valve to the same position (fully closed is easiest) before clamping the new cable.
- Lightly lubricate the inner wire with a dry cable lube; do not use heavy grease, which stiffens in the cold.
- Check full travel in both directions after fitting. The flap or valve should reach both stops without the lever binding.
- Avoid tight bends in the routing; sharp kinks cause the drag that killed the old cable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this fit my 1987 Vanagon Westfalia?
EMPI lists it for 1982–1991 Vanagons with the 1.6 diesel, 1.9 and 2.1 engines, which includes Westfalias. Check that your old cable is 920 mm long.
Is this the same as VW 251 265 473 A?
Yes. EMPI and JP Group list 251 265 473 A as the OE reference.
How do I know which heater cable I need?
Measure the old cable end to end. Vanagons use several cable lengths; this one is 920 mm.
Does it fit a 1980–1981 air-cooled Vanagon?
Not confirmed. JP Group lists the T3 from 1979, but EMPI only lists 1982 and later. Compare length and end fittings first.
What else should I replace?
If one cable is seized, the others are often close behind. Check the heater valve and flap pivots for free movement too.
Is it new or rebuilt?
New JP Group cable.
Explore Related Categories
VW Vanagon Parts · All VW Air-Cooled Parts
⚠ WARNING (California Proposition 65): This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.p65warnings.ca.gov. Parts are legal for use on pre-pollution-controlled vehicles only.
