The Volkswagen AL is a 1,588 cc, air — cooled, flat — four petrol engine produced between 1973 and 1983. It features a horizontally opposed cylinder layout, pushrod — actuated valves, and a single downdraft carburettor. In standard form, it delivered 50 kW (68 PS), providing adequate power for its lightweight applications.
Fitted primarily to the Type 4 411/412 and early Type 2 (T2) ‘Bay Window’ vans and pickups, the AL was engineered for durability and simplicity in varied…
Volkswagen
Production years 1973–1983 predate formal Euro standards; compliant with national regulations of era .
The Volkswagen AL is a 1,588 cc air-cooled flat-four petrol engine engineered for rear-engine applications (1973-1983). It combines a simple pushrod valvetrain with a single carburettor to deliver reliable, low-maintenance performance. Designed for pre-catalyst emissions norms, it prioritizes mechanical robustness over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,588 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Flat-four, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 58.5 mm | |
Power output | 50 kW (68 PS) @ 4,300 rpm | |
Torque | 123 Nm @ 2,600 rpm | |
Fuel system | Single 34 PICT-3 downdraft carburettor | |
Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National Standards) | |
Compression ratio | 7.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Air-cooled (fan-forced) | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 100 kg |
The Volkswagen AL was used across Volkswagen's Type 4 platform with rear, longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor carburettor updates throughout its production run, but no major revisions affecting core compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The AL is renowned for its mechanical simplicity and durability when properly maintained. Its air-cooled design avoids radiator and water pump issues. Long-term reliability depends on regular valve adjustments, oil changes, and addressing oil cooler leaks promptly. With care, these engines can easily surpass 150,000 miles.
The most frequent issues are oil leaks from the cooler seals, carburettor malfunctions causing running problems, cracked exhaust manifolds creating noise and fumes, and generator/alternator failures. These are well-documented in Volkswagen service literature and are generally straightforward to fix.
The AL 1.6L engine was primarily used in the Volkswagen Type 4 (411/412) sedans and estates (1973-1974) and the Type 2 'Bay Window' vans, pickups, and kombis (1973-1979). It was also used in the US-spec Porsche 914 (1973-1976) as their 1.8L variant.
Yes, the AL responds well to tuning. Common upgrades include dual carburettors, performance camshafts, larger valves, and exhaust headers, which can increase power to 80-90 PS. The bottom end is robust, but significant power gains require balancing and blueprinting. Ensure the cooling system can handle the extra heat.
Real-world fuel economy for an AL-powered Type 2 Bus is typically 18-22 mpg UK (12.5-15.5 L/100km) in mixed driving. Highway cruising can return 25-28 mpg UK (10-11.5 L/100km). These figures are for a well-tuned engine; a poorly adjusted carburettor will significantly increase consumption.
No. The AL is a non-interference engine. If the timing gears were to fail (an extremely rare occurrence), the pistons and valves would not collide. This is a safety feature of its simple OHV design, making it more forgiving of timing issues than modern engines.
Volkswagen originally specified SAE 30 for warm climates and SAE 10W-40 for varied conditions. Modern high-quality 15W-40 or 20W-50 diesel-rated oils (with higher zinc content) are often recommended for better protection in air-cooled engines. Change intervals should be 5,000-7,500 km.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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