15 X 10 Steel Rim, Series 27, 4 On 130mm, 2 Backspacing

OVERVIEW

When you''re tearing through the dunes or navigating technical rock crawls, you need a wheel that offers more than just a mounting point for your tires; you need the uncompromising strength of the EMPI Series 27 Steel Rim. Engineered specifically for the air-cooled enthusiast who refuses to stay on the pavement, this 15x10 inch powerhouse is built to withstand the brutal lateral forces and high-impact landings common in off-road racing and aggressive trail riding. The heavy-duty steel construction provides a level of resilience that aluminum wheels simply cannot match, allowing for minor field repairs and ensuring that a stray rock won''t end your weekend early. This isn''t just a rim; it''s a foundational upgrade for any Baja Bug, Manx-style buggy, or custom rail looking to establish a dominant footprint and superior stability on loose terrain.

The standout feature of this specific Series 27 wheel is its aggressive 2-inch backspacing combined with a massive 10-inch width. By pushing the wheel center further inboard, this configuration significantly widens your vehicle''s track, lowering the center of gravity and providing a massive boost in cornering stability and "float" over soft sand. Designed with the classic VW 4 on 130mm lug pattern, it integrates seamlessly with late-model Beetle hubs and disc brake conversions without the need for sketchy adapters. Here at Appletree Auto, we know that off-roading is hard on equipment, which is why we recommend the Series 27 for drivers who prioritize durability and performance. Whether you''re building a dedicated desert racer or a rugged weekend warrior, these wheels deliver the "old-school" toughness and "new-school" precision required to conquer the elements.

FITMENT

This wheel features the standard late-model Volkswagen 4 on 130mm bolt pattern. Please note that due to the 10-inch width and 2-inch backspacing, these wheels are intended for off-road applications with widened fenders or open-wheel configurations. Fits the following models (with appropriate clearance):

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1968 through 1977 (Standard and Super Beetle)
• Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia: 1968 through 1974
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1966 through 1973
• Custom Applications: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Baja Bugs using 4x130mm drums or disc rotors.
• Note: Will NOT fit early 5-lug (5x205mm) hubs without adapters or hub swaps.

SPECS

Every dimension of the Series 27 wheel is optimized for maximum durability in high-stress environments. Check the technical specifications below to ensure compatibility with your suspension and tire setup:

• Wheel Diameter: 15 Inches
• Wheel Width: 10 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 4 on 130mm (Late VW)
• Backspacing: 2 Inches (Deep Dish / Wide Track)
• Material: Heavy-Duty Rolled Steel
• Construction: Two-piece welded steel for maximum structural integrity
• Series: EMPI Series 27
• Weight: Approximately 31 lbs per wheel
• Finish: Durable White Powder Coat (Ready for use or custom paint)
• Valve Stem Hole: Standard sizing for off-road rubber or metal stems

PRO TIPS

PRO TIP 1: Understanding the 2-Inch Backspacing. This wheel features a very shallow 2-inch backspacing, which means the mounting face is very close to the inner edge of the rim. This effectively "pushes" the tire outward away from the chassis. While this provides incredible stability and a wide stance, you must check your tie-rod ends and fender lips for clearance. On a Baja Bug, you will almost certainly need wide-eye or cut fenders to accommodate the swing of a 10-inch wide rim during full-lock turns or high-travel suspension compression.

PRO TIP 2: Tire Selection for the 10-Inch Width. A 10-inch wide rim is specifically designed for "flotation" tires. We recommend pairing these with a tire that is at least 10.5 to 12.5 inches wide, such as a 31x10.50R15 or a 33x12.50R15. Using a tire that is too narrow for a 10-inch rim can lead to "bead burping" or de-beading when running low air pressures in the dunes. Always ensure your tire manufacturer approves a 10-inch rim width for the specific tire model you choose to maintain safety and performance.

PRO TIP 3: Lug Nut Torque and Maintenance. Steel wheels behave differently than aluminum wheels under thermal stress. When you first install these rims, use high-quality 60-degree taper lug nuts to ensure proper seating. We strongly recommend torquing them to factory specs and then re-checking the torque after your first 25 to 50 miles of driving, and again after your first hard off-road session. Steel can "settle" slightly against the hub, and maintaining proper torque is essential to prevent wallowing out the lug holes during high-vibration trail riding.