043-129-707 VW Fuel Injection Intake Manifold Isolator - Beetle, Super Beetle

Intake Manifold Fiber Isolator Block – 043-129-707

The 043-129-707 is a specialized fiber isolator block designed for fuel-injected air-cooled Volkswagen engines. Positioned between the intake manifold ends and the cylinder heads, this thick gasket acts as a thermal barrier. Its primary function is to prevent the intense heat of the cylinder heads from conducting upward into the intake manifold and overheating the fuel injectors.

Maintaining a cooler intake manifold is critical for fuel-injected systems to prevent vapor lock and ensure the fuel injectors operate within their intended temperature range. These fiber blocks are prone to becoming brittle over time due to constant heat cycles and often crack or shatter during removal. Because a cracked isolator will cause a significant vacuum leak—leading to poor idle and lean running conditions—replacement is highly recommended whenever the manifold is serviced.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility

VW Beetle:

• 1975, 1976, 1977

VW Super Beetle:

• 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979

Product Highlights & Features

• Thermal Protection: High-density fiber construction provides excellent insulation to protect fuel injectors from engine heat soak.

• Vacuum Integrity: Precision-cut to provide a flat, stable mating surface between the head and the manifold, ensuring a leak-free seal.

• Fuel Injected Specific: Specifically designed for the fuel injection systems found on 1600cc engines.

• Sold Individually: Price is for a single gasket; 2 are required to complete one engine.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 043-129-707

• Material: Compressed Fiber / Phenolic Blend

• Quantity Required: 2

• Application: Fuel Injected (FI) Upright Engines

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Clean Surfaces: Before installation, ensure the mating surfaces on both the cylinder head and the intake manifold are perfectly clean and free of old gasket material.

• Inspect for Cracks: Always inspect these blocks for hairline fractures before installation. Even a small crack can expand under heat and cause an air leak that is difficult to diagnose.

• Torque Carefully: Tighten the manifold nuts evenly. Over-tightening one side can put uneven pressure on the fiber block, causing it to snap.

• Gasket Orientation: Ensure the block is centered over the intake port to prevent any restriction in airflow which could affect engine performance.

043129707