15 X 6.5 Forged Aluminum Rim, 5 On 205mm 2-5/8 Backspacing

OVERVIEW

When you''re pushing your air-cooled machine through the punishing terrain of the Mojave or carving through the dunes at Glamis, your wheels are the only thing standing between you and the earth. The EMPI Race-Trim 15 x 6.5 Forged Aluminum Rim is engineered specifically for the enthusiast who demands both rugged durability and a high-end aesthetic. These wheels aren''t just for show; they are designed to handle the lateral loads and impact stresses associated with off-road racing and aggressive trail riding. The machine finish provides a clean, professional look that resists the pitting and corrosion often seen in lesser-quality finishes, ensuring your Baja Bug or sand rail looks as good in the pits as it does on the track. By choosing this Race-Trim wheel, you''re investing in a legacy of air-cooled performance that EMPI has perfected over decades of competition.

Beyond the striking visual appeal, the technical construction of these aluminum rims offers a significant performance advantage over traditional stamped steel wheels. By utilizing high-grade aluminum, these wheels reduce unsprung weight, allowing your suspension to react faster to bumps and dips in the trail. This translates to better traction, improved handling, and reduced wear on your shocks and ball joints. The 5 on 205mm ''''Wide 5'''' bolt pattern is a direct fit for early Volkswagen applications, eliminating the need for sketchy adapters or expensive hub conversions. With a 2-5/8 inch backspacing, these rims are ideally suited for vehicles with wider tires or modified suspension setups, providing the necessary clearance for brake components and steering geometry without sacrificing the aggressive stance your VW deserves.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle (Standard & Super): 1954 to 1966 (Equipped with Wide 5 hubs)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 to 1966
• VW Bus / Type 2: 1950 to 1970
• VW Thing / Type 181: All years (utilizing 5-on-205mm drums or disc conversions)
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Any chassis utilizing early 5-lug Volkswagen hubs
• Custom Baja Bugs: Ideal for setups using wide-5 brake conversion kits

SPECS

• Diameter: 15 Inches
• Width: 6.5 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide 5)
• Backspacing: 2-5/8 Inches
• Material: High-Strength Aluminum Alloy
• Construction: Pressure Cast for Maximum Structural Integrity
• Finish: Precision Machined Face and Lip
• Lug Seat: Ball Seat (Requires specific VW-style ball seat hardware)
• Weight: Approximately 20.05 lbs
• Series: EMPI Race-Trim Performance

PRO TIPS

1. Lug Nut Criticality and Seat Selection

One of the most common mistakes when installing aluminum rims is using the wrong lug nuts. These EMPI Race-Trim wheels require ball-seat lug nuts to distribute the clamping force evenly across the aluminum surface. Do not use 60-degree tapered (conical) nuts, as they will not seat correctly and will eventually wallow out the lug holes, leading to catastrophic wheel failure. Always ensure you have at least 1/2-inch of thread engagement on your studs for maximum safety during high-stress off-road maneuvers. If your studs are too short, we recommend upgrading to longer hardened chromoly studs available here at Appletree.

2. The Heat Cycle Torque Procedure

Aluminum expands and contracts at a different rate than the steel of your brake drums or rotors. After installing these wheels for the first time, torque them to the manufacturer''s specification (typically 80-90 ft-lbs for wide-5 setups). Drive the vehicle for about 25 to 50 miles, or after your first heat cycle in the dirt, and then re-torque them while the wheels are cool