Main Bearing Discovery – Type 1 & 4

Main Bearing Discovery – Type 1 & 4

A recent haul of vintage VW main bearings has us diving into the heart of air-cooled performance. These essential components keep your crankshaft running smoothly, and finding high-quality bearings—especially NOS (New Old Stock)—is a rare win for builders and restorers.

Type 1 vs. Type 4 Bearings

  • Type 1: Smaller, used in classic Beetles and early Buses, works with magnesium cases.
  • Type 4: Larger, designed for high-load applications in later Buses and Porsche 914s, works with aluminum cases.

With German-manufactured bearings getting harder to find, this discovery is big news. We’re cataloging these parts—stay tuned for updates! If you’re tackling a VW engine rebuild, SCAT VW has the expertise and performance parts you need.

Have a build in progress? Let us know!

About SCAT VW

For over 50 years, SCAT VW has been a leader in the Volkswagen aftermarket, providing high-performance engine components for air-cooled VW enthusiasts worldwide. From specialty VW parts to crankshafts, rods, bearings, and more, SCAT VW continues to set the standard in quality and performance.

SCAT VW is dedicated to continuing our quest for excellence to keep Volkswagens running and performing at the highest level.

More News & Events

What’s a Cal-Look VW Bug?

What’s a Cal-Look VW Bug?

A “Cal-Look” VW Bug, short for “California Look,” is a custom style of Volkswagen Beetle that originated in Southern California in the 1960s and 1970s. *Featured image courtesy of Randy Paredes.

The Volkswagen Thing

The Volkswagen Thing

The Volkswagen Type 181, commonly known as the “Volkswagen Thing” in the United States, was a compact, off-road utility vehicle produced by Volkswagen from 1968 to 1983.

SCAT VW Engine

SCAT VW Engine

SCAT VW is proud to highlight customer builds like this VW Bug with a SCAT VW engine.