15 X 4 Forged Beadlock Rim, 5 On 205mm. Red Beadlock

OVERVIEW

When you''re carving through the dunes or navigating technical rock sections, the last thing you want to worry about is popping a bead. This EMPI Race-Trim 15 x 4 Forged Beadlock Rim is engineered specifically for the demanding environments of off-road racing and recreational sand use. By utilizing a functional red beadlock ring, this wheel allows you to run significantly lower tire pressures to increase your footprint and traction without the risk of the tire spinning on the rim or unseating during high-side loads. The 4-inch width is the gold standard for front-end setups on Bajas and rail buggies, providing the perfect profile for narrow sand tires or off-road steering tires to ensure maximum bite and minimal flotation drag when you need to point the nose and go.

Crafted from high-grade pressure-cast aluminum with a precision machined finish, this wheel offers the ideal balance of lightweight performance and rugged durability. The iconic 5 on 205mm bolt patterncommonly referred to as the "Wide-5"makes this a direct fit for early Volkswagen spindles and brake drums, maintaining that classic off-road VW heritage while upgrading to modern race-ready technology. The striking red anodized beadlock ring doesn''t just provide essential mechanical security for your tire; it adds a bold, aggressive aesthetic that screams performance. Whether you''re building a trophy-winning Baja Bug or a weekend warrior sand rail, these wheels provide the structural integrity required to withstand the vertical G-loads and lateral stresses of aggressive off-road driving.

FITMENT

This wheel features the classic VW 5 on 205mm bolt pattern and is designed for the following applications:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1954 through 1966 (Stock Wide-5 Spindles).
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus: 1955 through 1970 (Stock Wide-5 Spindles).
• Volkswagen Type 3: 1961 through 1965 (Stock Wide-5 Spindles).
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1966 (Stock Wide-5 Spindles).
• Baja Bug Conversions: Using early 5-lug drum or disc brake conversions.
• Sand Rails & Dune Buggies: All chassis utilizing Wide-5 front or rear hubs.
• Meyers Manx: And other fiberglass kit cars on early VW floor pans.

SPECS

Detailed technical specifications for the 00-9764-0-R Beadlock Wheel:

• Wheel Diameter: 15 Inches.
• Wheel Width: 4 Inches.
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide-5).
• Backspacing: 1-3/4 Inches (1.75").
• Material: High-Strength Pressure Cast Aluminum.
• Finish: Machined Face with Red Anodized Ring.
• Beadlock Hardware: High-tensile strength bolts included.
• Lug Seat: Ball Seat (Requires standard VW style ball seat lug nuts/bolts).
• Weight: Approximately 19.25 lbs.
• Series: EMPI Race-Trim Series.

PRO TIPS

1. Master the Torque Sequence

When installing your tires on these beadlocks, never use an impact wrench to tighten the ring bolts. You must use a calibrated torque wrench and follow a "star" or "criss-cross" pattern in multiple stages. Start by snugging all bolts by hand, then torque them in 5 lb-ft increments until you reach the manufacturer''s final torque specification (typically between 15-18 lb-ft, but always verify). This ensures the ring applies even pressure across the tire bead, preventing leaks and ensuring the ring doesn''t warp or crack under stress. Re-check the torque after your first twenty minutes of driving, as the rubber bead will "settle" and the bolts may lose their initial tension.

2. Use Anti-Seize on Hardware

Off-road environments are notoriously harsh, often involving moisture, salt, or fine silt that can lead to galvanic corrosion between the steel bolts and the aluminum wheel threads. Before assembly, apply a small amount of high-quality anti-seize lubricant to the threads of each beadlock bolt. This simple step prevents the hardware from seizing over time, making future tire changes significantly easier and protecting the internal threads of your expensive Race-Trim wheels. If you frequently drive in mud or wet conditions, this is a non-negotiable step for long-term wheel maintenance.

3. Manage Your Air Pressure Wisely

The primary advantage of a beadlock is the ability to run "low air," but "low" doesn''t mean "zero." For most front-end sand applications on a lightweight buggy, 5 to 8 PSI is often the sweet spot for maximum steering response and flotation. However, if you are running in rocky terrain or high-speed desert trails, keep the pressure slightly higher (12-15 PSI) to protect the rim lip from impact damage. While the beadlock keeps the tire on the rim, it doesn''t protect the aluminum structure from bending if you bottom out on a sharp rock with insufficient air volume to cushion the blow.