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Type 4 Store

The Type 4 Store specializes in parts for the Type 4 engine used in Porsche 914, 912E, and VW Type 2/4 411, 412, Bus, Transporter, and Vanagon.

Jake Raby's Aircooled Technology opened the Type 4 Store in 2004. In 2014, LN Engineering took over the Type 4 Store. LN Engineering's Type 4 Store continues to supply all the same high quality Type 4 components originally developed and sold by Jake Raby and Aircooled Technology. In fact, all Aircooled Technology engines are still built with same components now supplied exclusively by LN Engineering's Type 4 Store, so you're getting the same Type 4 engine parts used in Aircooled Technology's VW Type 4 engine rebuilds.

Take advantage of the Type 4 Store's engine rebuild kits featuring Nickies cylinders, camshaft kits with custom cam grinds, DTM upright conversion cooling systems, as well as everything else you need to rebuild and upgrade the VW Type 4 engine in your Porsche 914, 912E, or Volkswagen Type 2/4 Bus, Transporter, or aircooled Vanagon.

Type 4 Store


Shop our Proven Type 4 Engine, Camshaft, and DTM Upright Conversion Kits


Type 4 Store Engine Kits

Type 4 Store DTM Upright Conversion Cooling Systems

Type 4 Store Camshaft Kits


...or choose a sub-category to browse available Type 4 Store items.


 

Type 4 Gaskets and Seals

Gaskets & Seals

  

Type 4 Connecting Rods

Connecting Rods

  

Type 4 Cooling System Accessories

Cooling System Accessories

  

Type 4 Crankshafts

Crankshaft

  

Type 4 Connecting Rod, Main, and Camshaft Bearings

Bearings

  

Type 4 Oiling System Accessories

Oiling System Accessories

  

Type 4 Pistons, Cylinders, and Piston Rings

PIston / Cylinder / Rings

 

Type 4 Valvetrain Components

Valvetrain

 

Type 4 Clutch, Flywheel, and Pressure Plates

Clutch / Flywheel

 

Type 4 Induction and Fuel System Components

Induction and Fuel Systems

 

Type 4 Ignition and Charging System Components

Ignition and Charging

 

Type 4 Sealants and Lubricants

Sealants and Lubricants

 

Type 4 Educational Media

Media

 
   

All about the VW Type 4 Engine

VW Type 4 Engine built by Jake Rabys Aircooled TechnologyThe VW Type 4 engine remains an essential part of Volkswagen's storied history, playing an important role in the brand's development and contributing to Porsche's heritage. Although it's not as universally recognized as the famous Beetle or as instantly iconic as the Porsche 911, the engine's influence and longevity in various models are worth celebrating.

Origins and Design of the VW Type 4 Engine


Introduced in the late 1960s, the VW Type 4 engine was a departure from previous air-cooled designs. It was an attempt by Volkswagen to create a larger, more powerful "big block" engine for their growing lineup. The engine was flat-4 (or "boxer") in design, air-cooled, and was initially available in 1.7 liters, later expanding to 1.8 and 2.0 liters.

What set the Type 4 engine apart from earlier VW engines was its construction. Unlike the previous upright fan cooling system, the Type 4 had its fan mounted directly on the crankshaft, which allowed for a more compact design. The engine was also designed with an improved oiling system, making it better equipped to handle the demands of everyday driving.

Volkswagen Models with the Type 4 Engine


The engine was named "Type 4" after the series of vehicles it was initially designed for: the Volkswagen Type 4 lineup, which included:

VW 411 (1968-1972): Introduced in 1968, the 411 was a step up in size and luxury from the Type 3 series. It was available as a sedan or wagon and was the first VW with a four-door option.

VW 412 (1972-1974): An evolution of the 411, the 412 boasted slight redesigns and refinements but maintained the overall character and intent of its predecessor.

Despite their innovative design, the VW Type 4 cars weren't significant sales successes, mainly because they were relatively expensive and not as fuel-efficient as competitors.

Porsche's Adoption of the Type 4 Engine


Perhaps the most illustrious chapter in the Type 4 engine's history is its connection to Porsche. The engine found a home in the:

Porsche 914: A collaboration between VW and Porsche, the 914 was an affordable mid-engined sports car. Initially, it was powered by the 1.7-liter version of the Type 4 engine, but later models also received the 1.8 and 2.0-liter variants. While the 914 faced its share of critics, it became a beloved classic, recognized for its handling and unique design.

End of the Road for the VW Type 4 Engine and its Legacy


By the mid-1970s, the era of the air-cooled engine was coming to an end, at least for mainstream vehicles. Newer designs and the demands of changing emission standards made the shift to water-cooled engines inevitable. However, the Type 4 engine did leave a lasting impact, especially on the Volkswagen Bus. The Type 2 (T2) Bus in particular adopted the Type 4 engine in its later years, benefiting from the additional power it provided.

While it's easy to focus on the vehicles themselves, understanding the engines that powered them offers insight into the technological and design choices of an era. The VW Type 4 engine stands as a testament to a period of transition and innovation for both Volkswagen and Porsche.

The Type 4 Store provides parts and support for VW and Porsche models fitted with the VW Type 4 Engine including engine kits, camshaft kits, and DTM upright conversion cooling systems.

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