021-101-341A VW Type 4 Cylinder Head Gasket - 1.8L, 2.0L

Cylinder Head Gasket – 021-101-341A

Ensure maximum compression and prevent dangerous combustion leaks with the 021-101-341A Cylinder Head Gasket. This specialized metal sealing ring is designed specifically for the Volkswagen Type 4 engine platform. Unlike the Type 1 engines which often ran without head gaskets, the Type 4 was factory-equipped with these precision-stamped rings to provide a reliable seal between the cylinder barrel and the cylinder head. This is a critical component for maintaining the thermal efficiency and power output of your air-cooled flat-four.

A blown or leaking head gasket on a Type 4 engine can lead to a "chirping" sound under load, loss of power, and localized overheating that can warp the cylinder head. These gaskets are manufactured to exact OEM thicknesses to ensure the deck height and compression ratio remain within factory specifications. Whether you are performing a top-end refresh or a complete engine rebuild, replacing these rings is mandatory for a long-lasting, leak-free seal.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility

VW Bus (Type 2):

• 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979

VW Vanagon (Air-Cooled):

• 1982, 1983

Product Highlights & Features

• Type 4 Specific: Engineered for the 1.8L, and 2.0L Type 4 engine cases used in later Transporters and Vanagons.

• High-Heat Resistance: Constructed from specialized metals designed to withstand the extreme cylinder head temperatures characteristic of air-cooled engines.

• Compression Consistency: Maintains the factory-intended seal, ensuring even power delivery across all four cylinders.

• OEM Quality: Produced to match the original Volkswagen structural dimensions for a drop-in fit.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 021-101-341A

• Engine Fitment: 1800cc, & 2000cc Type 4

• Material: Steel / Composition Metal

• Quantity Required: 4 per engine

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Inspect the Sealing Surface: Before installation, check both the cylinder head and the top of the cylinder barrel for pitting or "flame-cut" grooves. If the surfaces are not perfectly flat and smooth, a new gasket will not seal properly.

• The "One-Time Use" Rule: These gaskets are designed to crush slightly upon installation to form a seal. They should never be reused once the cylinder head has been torqued down.

• Torque Pattern is Vital: Always tighten your cylinder head nuts in the factory-specified "X" pattern in multiple stages. Uneven torqueing is the primary cause of premature head gasket failure.

• Check for Leaks: After the first few heat cycles of a new engine build, it is wise to listen for any "puffing" sounds that might indicate a gasket hasn't seated correctly.

021101341A

044.849

044849