The Volkswagen ALL is a 1,795 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 55 kW (75 PS), offering a modest power increase over its 1.6L AL predecessor.
Fitted primarily to the Type 2 (T2 Bay Window) vans, pickups, and campers, the ALL was engineered for low-end torque and reliability in commercial and leisure applications. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through carburettor calibration and ignition timing, meeting pre-catalyst national standards applicable before Euro 1.
One documented concern is cylinder head stud pull-out or warping under sustained high load or overheating, which can lead to head gasket failure. This issue is addressed in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 1979‑08. The engine also requires meticulous valve clearance adjustment and cooling system maintenance to prevent thermal stress.
Volkswagen
Production years 1973–1983 predate formal Euro standards; compliant with national regulations of era (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2346).
The Volkswagen ALL is a 1,795 cc air-cooled flat-four petrol engine engineered for rear-engine commercial and leisure vehicles (1973-1983). It combines a robust pushrod valvetrain with a single carburettor to deliver improved torque over the 1.6L variant. Designed for pre-catalyst emissions norms, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,795 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Flat-four, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 64.5 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 135 Nm @ 2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single 34 PICT-3 downdraft carburettor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National Standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 7.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Air-cooled (fan-forced) | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 30 or 10W-40 (non-detergent for early models) | |
| Dry weight | 105 kg |
The air-cooled design offers freedom from coolant leaks but demands vigilant maintenance of airflow and oil cooling. The increased displacement over the AL engine provides more torque for carrying loads but also generates more heat, making cylinder head integrity critical. Valve clearances must be checked every 10,000 km. The 34 PICT-3 carburettor requires periodic tuning. Cylinder head stud issues (STB 1979-08) are a known risk under heavy use; ensure heads are torqued correctly and the engine is not overheated.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 30 or 10W-40; non-detergent oils were specified for very early models (Volkswagen Service Schedule Type 4).
Emissions: Predates Euro standards; compliant with 1970s UK/EU national vehicle regulations (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2346).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (Volkswagen Group PT‑1981).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (ETKA): Docs 041100212, 041109102
Volkswagen Workshop Manual: Type 4 Engine
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2346)
The Volkswagen ALL was used across Volkswagen's Type 2 platform with rear, longitudinal mounting. This engine was a direct displacement upgrade from the AL, sharing the same core architecture. Minor carburettor jetting revisions were implemented, but no major mechanical changes affecting broad compatibility occurred during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the crankcase, just below the generator/alternator stand (Volkswagen Workshop Manual Type 4). The ALL is visually identical to the AL but has a larger displacement (bore 94.0mm vs 93.0mm). Critical differentiation from the AL: The engine code stamp is "ALL". The cylinder heads and barrels are specific to the 1.8L displacement and not interchangeable with 1.6L parts. The oil cooler and fan shroud are identical to the AL.
The ALL's primary reliability risk is overheating and subsequent cylinder head damage, particularly when used for towing or in hot climates without adequate maintenance. VW service data indicates that a significant number of failures are linked to neglected valve adjustments or obstructed cooling airflow. Ensuring the engine runs within its designed thermal limits is paramount for longevity.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (1973-1983) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1985-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN ALL.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLKSWAGEN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
VOLKSWAGEN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLKSWAGEN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
