Cover and air baffles for the Bus

Cover and Air Deflectors for Your VW Bus T2

The cooling system of the air-cooled engine is the heart of your legendary VW Bus T2 – and should be top priority during every drive and inspection. Various components are used to protect and perfectly guide the airflow depending on the engine type and individual restoration needs. Alongside proper guidance of the cooling airflow, a precisely fitting cover and high-quality air deflectors ensure that heat is reliably dissipated. Then nothing stands in the way of carefree drives and unforgettable road trips. We explain why the topic of covers and air deflectors is essential for every T2 enthusiast, which steps to consider during installation, and which versions are used for the different engines.

Why is an intact cover with matching air deflectors so important?

A functioning air cooling system is the insurance policy for your classic engine – only when the airflow is directed purposefully through the engine compartment can the optimal operating temperature be maintained. Relying solely on the fan wheel is not enough. Without a clean cover and complete air deflectors, valuable cooling air escapes unused or dangerous heat buildup occurs around the cylinders. To protect the engine compartment from overheating and minimize thermal stress on the cylinder heads, you need to rely on custom-fit deflectors. These also prevent kicked-up dirt or spray water from reaching sensitive components directly.

When should I check the air deflectors?

Before every season & after long drives! Checking the engine compartment is a mandatory part of the spring inspection: rust-throughs, bent edges, or missing seals are discovered in good time. After long summer tours, dust, road dirt, and small deposits are removed when cleaning the deflectors, instead of clogging the cooling fins of your engine long-term.

How do I install them in the engine compartment?

These components belong to the basic equipment for a successful overhaul:

• The matching air deflectors for your engine type 
• High-quality seals and mounting kits 
• A clean engine compartment free of rust 
• Suitable tools for installation

For most tasks, careful preparation of the sealing surfaces is recommended as the foundation for installation. When removing old parts, rust removal at the mounting points is also required. Align the cover and deflectors precisely and screw them evenly into the engine compartment. Ensure all engine compartment seals fit without gaps so no warm exhaust air flows back into the intake area. Please make sure not to overtighten the mounting screws – otherwise the delicate deflectors may warp and no longer seal tightly. After installation, a short test drive followed by a check of the operating temperature is recommended. This ensures your bus is reliably supplied with the necessary cooling airflow.

Which cover fits your T2?

Answering a question with a question is usually considered impolite. But when it comes to choosing the right cover or matching deflectors for cooling, we would like to know: Which engine type is in your T2? Do you drive a classic Type 1 engine or does the heart of a powerful Type 4 engine beat in your bus? Because there is a tailor-made solution for every engine.

• Type 1 Engine: This classic copes best with standard cylinder cover plates and side air deflectors. You have the choice between an original-look finish and chrome-plated versions. 
• Type 4 Engine: To prevent your flat engine from overheating even in high summer temperatures, you should rely on specially shaped covers that direct the airflow precisely around the horizontal cylinders. Ensure that all foam seals are intact. 
• Tuned Engines: For engines with increased performance, a reinforced cover with expanded air ducting is recommended. These additionally dissipate peak heat levels and safeguard the longevity of your engine.