043-105-101XD Cross-Drilled 69mm Crankshaft - VW Beetle, Ghia, & Bus

VW Air-Cooled 69mm Cross-Drilled Crankshaft – 043-105-101XD

Build a dependable stock engine with this 69mm Cross-Drilled Crankshaft. This unit is the standard-stroke replacement for 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc air-cooled engines. The "XD" suffix indicates that this specific crankshaft has been cross-drilled for enhanced oil flow. Unlike the standard direct-drilled design, the cross-drilled configuration allows for more consistent lubrication to the connecting rod journals, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts looking for an extra layer of protection in their stock or mild-performance rebuilds.

Precision-machined from high-quality cast steel, this crankshaft maintains all the factory dimensions, including the standard 4-dowel flywheel mounting pattern. It is an ideal "0-mile" alternative to refurbishing a 50-year-old original core, ensuring your bottom end starts with perfect bearing journals and clear oil passages.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility

This 69mm crankshaft is the standard stroke fitment for the following models continuously across these years:

VW Beetle & Super Beetle

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

VW Super Beetle (1302 & 1303)

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

VW Karmann Ghia

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

VW Bus (Type 2)

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

VW Type 3 (Notchback, Fastback, Squareback)

• 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973

VW Thing (Type 181)

• 1973, 1974

Product Highlights & Features

• Cross-Drilled Oiling: The "XD" design provides improved oiling to the rod journals, ensuring better lubrication during high-RPM or high-heat operation.

• Stock 69mm Stroke: Direct replacement for the original crankshaft; requires no special rods or engine case clearancing.

• Cast Steel Construction: Offers excellent durability for daily drivers and stock restorations.

• 4-Dowel Flywheel Mount: Features the standard VW mounting configuration with pre-installed dowel pins for easy assembly.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 043-105-101XD

• Stroke: 69mm

• Drilling Style: Cross-Drilled

• Material: Cast Steel

• Flywheel Pattern: 4-Dowel

• Journal Sizes: Standard/Standard (Main & Rod)

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• The "Direct vs. Cross" Debate: While cross-drilling is often preferred for high-RPM oiling, ensure your oil pump is in good condition to maintain the consistent pressure required by this design.

• Gear Pressing: Always use a proper press and heat the timing gears before installation. Never strike the crankshaft with a hammer, as this can lead to internal stress fractures.

• Set Your End Play: Use three fresh flywheel shims to set your flywheel end play between 0.003" and 0.005". Incorrect end play is the most common cause of premature thrust bearing failure.

• Thorough Cleaning: Even though the unit is new, use a rifle brush and solvent to clean all internal oil galleries to remove the shipping preservative and any potential manufacturing dust before final assembly.

043105101XD