15 X 4 Forged Beadlock Rim, 5 On 205mm, Black Beadlock

OVERVIEW

When you are tearing through the dunes or navigating technical rock sections in your air-cooled powerhouse, the last thing you want to worry about is blowing a bead. The 15 X 4 Forged Beadlock Rim from EMPI''s Race-Trim series is engineered to provide the ultimate peace of mind for off-road enthusiasts who demand both style and uncompromising functionality. This wheel is specifically designed with the classic 5 on 205mm bolt pattern, making it a direct fit for early Volkswagen platforms and custom off-road builds. By utilizing a genuine beadlock system, this rim physically clamps the tire to the wheel, allowing you to run significantly lower tire pressures for a massive contact patch without the risk of the tire spinning on the rim or de-beading during high-torque maneuvers.

Constructed with a high-strength pressure-cast aluminum body and finished with a precision-machined face, this wheel strikes the perfect balance between unsprung weight reduction and rugged durability. The 4-inch width is ideal for front-runner applications on sand rails, baja bugs, and manx-style buggies, providing a narrow profile that cuts through soft terrain while maintaining excellent steering response. The included black anodized beadlock ring not only adds a stealthy, aggressive aesthetic to your ride but also serves as a sacrificial barrier against trail obstacles. Complete with all necessary grade-8 hardware, this wheel is a professional-grade solution for anyone looking to elevate their off-road performance while honoring the "Wide-5" heritage of the vintage VW community.

FITMENT

This wheel features the traditional VW "Wide-5" (5 on 205mm) bolt pattern. It is designed for the following applications:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1946 through 1967 (standard models)
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter: 1950 through 1970
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961 through 1965
• Karmann Ghia: 1955 through 1966
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Any custom chassis utilizing 5 on 205mm drums or disc brake conversions.
• Meyers Manx & Fiberglass Buggies: Perfect for that classic off-road look with modern security.

SPECS

• Diameter: 15 Inches
• Width: 4 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide-5)
• Back Spacing: 1-3/4 Inches
• Material: High-Strength Pressure Cast Aluminum
• Finish: Machined Aluminum Face with Black Beadlock Ring
• Ring Type: Functional Forged Beadlock
• Hardware: Included High-Tensile Zinc Plated Bolts
• Lug Seat: Ball Seat (Requires standard VW style ball seat lug nuts/bolts)
• Weight: Approximately 19.25 lbs

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Beadlock Torque Sequencing

Installing a beadlock tire is not like a standard mount-and-balance. You must tighten the beadlock ring bolts in a "star" or "criss-cross" pattern, similar to how you tighten lug nuts. Do not torque them to the final spec in one go; instead, do it in three stages (e.g., 5 ft-lbs, 10 ft-lbs, then the final 15-18 ft-lbs). This ensures the ring applies even pressure across the tire bead, preventing leaks and ensuring the ring doesn''t warp. We recommend re-checking the torque after your first 50 miles or first hard day in the dirt, as the rubber bead will "settle" under the metal ring.

2. Choose the Right Tire Width

Since this is a 4-inch wide rim, it is specifically optimized for narrow front tires. For sand applications, it pairs perfectly with 15-inch "Razor" or "Rib" tires. For desert or dual-purpose Baja Bugs, look for a 165R15 or a skinny 27-inch off-road tire. Avoid trying to stretch a wide tire onto this rim; the narrow width is your advantage for steering precision in soft sand and reducing the "plowing" effect that wider front tires can cause in high-speed turns.

3. Maintain Your Hardware

Off-roading exposes your wheels to moisture, silt, and salt. Because beadlock rings use multiple small bolts, it is crucial to apply a small dab of anti-seize to the threads during assembly. This prevents the steel bolts from "galling" or seizing into the aluminum wheel over time. Additionally, always clean the area behind the beadlock ring after a muddy run; trapped debris can cause corrosion or balance issues. A quick rinse and a visual inspection of the bolt heads will keep your Race-Trim wheels looking and performing like new for years.