When working on air-cooled Volkswagen engines or the Porsche 914’s flat-four, you’ll often come across part numbers that cross over between the two brands. One such number is 021 109 101K, a camshaft that VW produced for Type 1 engines and that later found its way into many 914 builds. Whether you’re rebuilding a stock 1.7-liter 914 or upgrading a vintage Beetle, knowing exactly what this camshaft is and where it fits can save you time and money.
This article covers the key specs, applications, and interchange details for camshaft part number 021 109 101K. You’ll also learn how to identify it, what it offers in terms of performance, and how it compares to other popular VW camshafts.
What Is Camshaft Part Number 021 109 101K?
The part number 021 109 101K follows the classic VW parts numbering system. The "021" prefix typically indicates a component originally designed for the VW Type 1 (Beetle) platform. The "109" series signifies a camshaft, and the suffix "K" denotes a specific grind or manufacturing revision. This camshaft was used on many stock air-cooled Volkswagen engines, particularly those with dual-port cylinder heads and hydraulic lifters in later models.
Physical Identification
The 021 109 101K camshaft is a cast iron camshaft designed for the VW Type 1 engine (also called the "flat-four" or "boxer" engine). It measures approximately 17.2 inches in overall length and has a journal diameter of 1.000 inch (25.4 mm). The cam lobes are arranged in the standard VW firing order (1-4-3-2). Visually, it looks similar to other VW camshafts, but you can identify it by the stamped part number on the front face or between the lobes.
Stock Performance Characteristics
This camshaft was designed for stock replacement or mild performance use. It offers a relatively low lift and short duration compared to aftermarket performance cams, but it provides a smooth idle and good low-end torque—exactly what you want in a daily driver or a mild street machine.
- Lift: Approximately 0.390 inch (intake and exhaust)
- Duration: Around 252 degrees advertised duration
- Lobe Center: 104 degrees
- Valve Overlap: About 30 degrees
These figures make the 021 109 101K a "standard" grind, similar to other OEM VW camshafts like the 111 109 101 or the 021 109 101B. It works well with stock valve springs and pushrods.
Compatibility with the Porsche 914
The Porsche 914 used the Volkswagen Type 4 engine in 1.7-liter, 1.8-liter, and 2.0-liter forms. However, many early 914s (1970–1973) came with the 1.7-liter engine, which shared many internal parts with the VW Type 1. In fact, the camshaft in the 1.7-liter 914 is often interchangeable with the VW Type 1 camshaft, including the 021 109 101K.
Which 914 Engines Accept This Camshaft?
The 021 109 101K camshaft is a direct drop-in replacement for the Porsche 914 1.7-liter engine (code EB, EC, or EE). It is also compatible with some 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter Type 4 engines, but only if you also change the camshaft bearings and possibly the pushrods. For the 1.7-liter, installation is straightforward: remove the old cam, insert the new one, and check valve clearance.
Important: The 021 109 101K uses a single-piece camshaft gear (also known as the cam gear or sprocket). Make sure your engine’s cam gear matches. Most 1.7-liter 914 engines use a single-piece gear, but some later models use a two-piece design. If you have a two-piece gear, you’ll need to swap it for a single-piece unit.
Performance in the 914
Stock 914 1.7-liter engines produce about 80 horsepower. Using the stock 021 109 101K camshaft will keep the engine’s characteristics very close to original: decent low-end torque but a soft top end. For weekend canyon carving or autocross, many 914 owners upgrade to a cam with more lift and duration (e.g., the Web 73 or Web 86). But if you’re restoring a numbers-matching car or want a reliable daily driver, the OEM camshaft is a solid choice.
How to Identify a Genuine 021 109 101K Camshaft
When buying a camshaft for your VW or 914, you need to ensure it’s the real deal and not a counterfeit or re-ground copy. Here’s how to verify:
- Check the part number: Look on the front face (the flat area near the cam gear) or on the shaft between lobes. The number should be stamped clearly as "021 109 101K".
- Measure the lift: Using a dial indicator, check the total lift of the intake and exhaust lobes. They should be 0.390 inches (9.91 mm) for stock cams.
- Look for VW logos: Genuine VW parts often have the VW logo or Audi rings cast into the metal.
- Check the cam gear: The gear should be a single piece, not bolted on. The tooth pattern should match your engine’s timing chain.
- Inspect the finish: OEM camshafts have a smooth, gray cast-iron finish. Avoid camshafts with rough spots or uneven wear.
If you’re buying a used camshaft, also check the bearing journals for scoring. Light wear can be polished, but deep grooves mean the cam is scrap.
Common Applications for 021 109 101K
Beyond the 914, this camshaft fits a wide range of air-cooled VW engines:
- Volkswagen Beetle (1968–1979, dual-port 1600cc engines)
- VW Bus (1970–1979, Type 1 and Type 2 engines)
- VW Karmann Ghia (1968–1974)
- VW Thing (1973–1974)
- VW Super Beetle (1971–1979)
In all these applications, the camshaft is a direct swap, provided you use the correct lifters and pushrods. It works with both solid and hydraulic lifter setups, but the stock grind is optimized for hydraulic lifters. If you use solid lifters, you may need to adjust the valves more often.
Interchange with Other Part Numbers
The 021 109 101K replaces or supersedes several older part numbers. If you have a camshaft with any of these numbers, the 021 109 101K is a suitable replacement:
- 021 109 101
- 021 109 101A
- 021 109 101B
- 021 109 101C
- 021 109 101H
- 111 109 101
However, pay attention to the suffix: "K" is a later revision. Some earlier versions had slightly different lobe profiles or material composition. The "K" version is widely considered the most reliable stock camshaft.
Installation Tips
Installing a camshaft in a VW Type 1 or Porsche 914 engine is a moderate job, but it requires careful attention to timing and clearance. Here are a few practical points:
- Always replace the camshaft bearings when installing a new camshaft. Used bearings can cause premature wear.
- Check valve-to-piston clearance after installation, especially if you are using aftermarket pistons or heads.
- Use assembly lube on all cam lobes, journals, and lifter faces before startup.
- Prime the oil system before the first start to ensure the cam gets oil immediately.
- Break-in procedure: Run the engine at 2,000–2,500 rpm for 20 minutes, varying speed slightly. Do not let it idle for extended periods during break-in.
If you are swapping your camshaft during a full engine rebuild, consider also upgrading the valve springs and rocker arms if you plan to rev over 5,000 rpm.
Final Recommendation
For owners of a VW Type 1 or a Porsche 914 1.7-liter engine who want a reliable, stock-performance camshaft, the 021 109 101K is an excellent choice. It offers dependable operation, fits without modifications, and is widely available. You can find it from reputable parts suppliers (but not marketplaces—look for online retailers specializing in air-cooled VW parts).
Before purchasing, verify the part number and condition. If you need more power for spirited driving, consider a mild performance cam like the Web 73 or a stock+ grind. But for a restoration or a daily driver, the 021 109 101K camshaft will keep your engine running smoothly for years.
Remember to source your camshaft from a trusted VW parts house to avoid counterfeit or poorly reground units. With the right camshaft, your air-cooled engine will be ready for the road ahead.