040-101-157 VW Type 1 Camshaft End Plug - Beetle, Bus, Ghia 13-1600cc

Camshaft End Plug (Poly) – 040-101-157

The 040-101-157 is a specialized camshaft end plug designed to seal the rear opening of the engine case on Volkswagen Type 1, 2, and 3 engines. Unlike the original metal-style plugs that often seeped oil, this modern replacement is made from high-density polyurethane. It is designed to be sandwiched between the two halves of the engine case during assembly, providing a superior, leak-proof seal at the end of the camshaft gallery.

This poly plug is a favorite among engine builders because it is more forgiving than metal versions and better handles the expansion and contraction of the engine case during heat cycles. It is an essential component for any "long block" assembly or engine rebuild, ensuring that one of the most common leak points on an air-cooled VW stays dry.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility

VW Bug (Beetle):

• 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977

VW Karmann Ghia:

• 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974

VW Type 3:

• 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973

VW Super Beetle:

• 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979

VW Thing:

• 1973, 1974

VW Bus (Transporter, Kombi):

• 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971

Product Highlights & Features

• Durable Polyurethane Construction: Offers better compression and sealing capabilities than traditional metal plugs, especially in used engine cases.

• Oil & Chemical Resistant: Specially formulated to withstand constant exposure to hot engine oil and additives without softening or degrading.

• Improved Sealing Surface: Features a slightly oversized outer diameter to ensure a tight interference fit within the engine case machined grooves.

• Precision Molded: Designed specifically for 1300-1600cc dual-relief and single-relief engine cases.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 040-101-157

• Material: Polyurethane

• Engine Type: VW Type 1 based (1300, 1500,1600cc)

• Installation State: Must be installed during engine case assembly.

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Sealant Application: While the poly material seals well on its own, many builders apply a very thin smear of case sealant (like Curil-T or Permatex) around the outer edge for extra security.

• Orientation: Ensure the plug is seated perfectly upright in the machined groove before torquing the case halves together. If it is "cocked" or tilted, it will cause a major leak.

• Single Use Item: Once an engine case is split, the cam plug should always be replaced. The compression it takes during the first assembly makes it unreliable for a second use.

• Verification: Double-check that the camshaft gear or end-play hasn't moved the cam in a way that interferes with the plug before the final case torqueing.