Common questions

Why are part numbers 311 on a VW?

Why are part numbers 311 on a VW?

The 311 designation is used because the 1300/1500/1600 engine was FIRST used in the Type 3 model VWs, even though it ended up being most recognized as a part that could be used in Beetles. To further complicate matters, you will sometimes encounter part numbers that SEEM to be VW part numbers but that stray from the formula above.

What are the digits on a VW part?

The 5th and 6th digits indicate the Part SubGroup (an itemized listing of Part SubGroups is not available at this time). Digits 7, 8, & 9 combined are an arbitrarily assigned Component Number. Digit #9 can also be an indication of what SIDE the part is for, if the part is side specific.

What kind of engine does a type 1 VW have?

To meet ever more stringent emission controls in the USA, VW fitted a Bosch AFC fuel-injection system on certain Type 1 models (as below), incorporating a catalytic converter to further clean up the exhaust gases. It’s always interesting to know what engine’s in your vehicle and you can check by looking at the prefix.

What is the position of the Pistons in a VW engine?

It’s almost like being able to see through the engine case to find out what position the pistons are in. Top Dead Centre (TDC) is the furthest point in the piston’s travel for cyclinders 1 and 3, Bottom Dead Centre (BDC) is the same for cyclinders 2 and 4 and is 180 degrees opposite of TDC on the pulley.

The 311 designation is used because the 1300/1500/1600 engine was FIRST used in the Type 3 model VWs, even though it ended up being most recognized as a part that could be used in Beetles. To further complicate matters, you will sometimes encounter part numbers that SEEM to be VW part numbers but that stray from the formula above.

Can a VW part number be dissected?

With a little background information, you too will be able to dissect a VW part number and have a good idea what vehicle the part is for and what the part’s application is.

What does the 4th digit on a VW part number mean?

The 4th digit in the nine digit series corresponds to a Main Group Part Category. The Main Group Part Categories are as follows: The 5th and 6th digits indicate the Part SubGroup (an itemized listing of Part SubGroups is not available at this time).

To meet ever more stringent emission controls in the USA, VW fitted a Bosch AFC fuel-injection system on certain Type 1 models (as below), incorporating a catalytic converter to further clean up the exhaust gases. It’s always interesting to know what engine’s in your vehicle and you can check by looking at the prefix.

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Ruth Doyle