1600cc Barrel And Piston Kit - 85.5mm Bore Type 1 Engines - KS

Premium quality 85.5mm barrel and piston kit manufactured by Kolbenschmidt, designed for all 1600cc Type 1-based aircooled VW engines. Featuring high-grade cast aluminium pistons and precision-machined cylinders, this kit is ideal for stock rebuilds and restorations where OEM-level quality and reliability are required.

The piston and cylinder assembly is fundamental to engine performance. As the pistons travel within the barrels, they compress the air/fuel mixture before ignition. Over time, wear in these components leads to reduced compression, increased oil consumption and loss of power. Replacing them restores proper sealing, improves combustion efficiency and returns the engine to smooth, reliable running.

Kolbenschmidt is well known for OEM manufacturing standards, offering excellent material quality, heat stability and long service life. The cast pistons are designed for quiet operation and durability in standard engines, while the supplied piston rings ensure effective sealing and consistent compression.

Manufactured to standard 85.5mm dimensions, this kit is a direct replacement for original 1600cc engines and requires no machining when used with standard cases and heads.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Kolbenschmidt
• Piston size: 85.5mm
• Engine size: 1600cc
• Piston type: Cast aluminium
• Quality: OEM / premium quality
• Quantity: Complete set for one engine

Kit Includes

• 4 x Barrels (cylinders)
• 4 x Pistons
• 4 x Gudgeon pins
• 8 x Circlips
• Full set of piston rings

Recommended Additional Parts

• Engine gasket set (top end or full rebuild)
• Main, big end and camshaft bearings
• Cylinder head studs or hardware kit
• Pushrod tube seals
• Oil pump and seals
• Ring compressor and torque wrench for correct installation

To Fit

Aircooled VW

• VW Beetle (Type 1) – 1600cc engines (1968–1979)
• VW Splitscreen (T1) – 1600cc conversions (1963–1967)
• VW Baywindow (T2) – 1600cc engines (1968–1979)
• VW Karmann Ghia – 1600cc engines (1968–1974)
• VW Type 3 – 1600cc engines (1968–1973)
• VW Type 181 Trekker – 1600cc engines (1968–1983)
• VW Buggy / Baja – 1600cc Type 1 based engines