22 Limiting Straps, Double Woven, Pair

OVERVIEW

When you''re pushing your air-cooled machine to the limit across the dunes or through rugged desert terrain, your suspension undergoes immense stress that can quickly lead to catastrophic failure without the right safeguards. These EMPI 22-inch double-woven limiting straps are the ultimate insurance policy for your long-travel setup, designed specifically to prevent your shocks from topping out or your CV joints from reaching a binding angle. In the world of off-road Volkswagens, whether it''s a high-clearance Baja Bug or a heavy-duty sand rail, the "droop" of your suspension needs a hard stop that won''t snap under pressure. By installing these heavy-duty straps, you are effectively isolating the kinetic energy of the unsprung weight, ensuring that your expensive coil-overs and drivetrain components remain within their operational geometry even during the most aggressive jumps and landings.

What sets these straps apart from standard single-layer versions is the robust double-woven construction, which provides a massive increase in tensile strength and significantly reduces the amount of "stretch" experienced over time. Standard straps can often elongate under the weight of heavy trailing arms and oversized tires, but these EMPI units are engineered to maintain their integrity under extreme loads. Each strap features reinforced, heat-treated carbon steel ends that are designed to fit standard mounting hardware, providing a secure anchor point that won''t flex or fatigue. For enthusiasts running heavy Type 2 Transporter components or custom wide-track suspension kits, this pair of 22-inch straps offers the peace of mind required to tackle the harshest environments without worrying about a snapped limit line or a tossed CV axle.

FITMENT

These 22-inch limiting straps are designed for custom off-road applications and are a universal fit for long-travel air-cooled VW suspension systems. They are commonly utilized on the following models and builds:

• VW Beetle (Baja Bug): Ideal for rear suspension setups using extended trailing arms (2x3, 3x3, or 5x5).
• VW Type 2 Bus / Transporter: Suitable for off-road converted buses requiring extra support for heavy rear-end weight.
• VW Thing (Type 181): Perfect for lifted 181 models navigating technical trails.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: A standard requirement for any tube-chassis rail with long-travel front or rear suspension.
• Woods Buggies: Heavy-duty protection for vehicles tackling deep ruts and vertical climbs.
• Custom Projects: Any off-road vehicle utilizing a 22-inch eye-to-eye limit point.

SPECS

Our EMPI double-woven straps are manufactured to the highest standards to ensure they survive the "thump" of a full-droop event. Here are the technical specifications:

• Overall Length: 22 Inches (measured eye-to-eye).
• Construction: Double-layered, high-tenacity woven nylon webbing for maximum durability.
• Mounting Ends: 4130 heat-treated carbon steel tabs for superior pull-strength.
• Hole Diameter: Precision-cleared for 1/2-inch mounting bolts.
• Material Width: Approximately 1.75 inches for optimal load distribution.
• Stretch Rating: Engineered for minimal elongation (approx. 1 inch of stretch per 12 inches of strap under maximum load).
• Finish: Corrosion-resistant plating on the steel end tabs.
• Quantity: Sold as a matched pair (2 straps included).

PRO TIPS

1. Accounting for Material Stretch

One of the most common mistakes builders make is mounting the strap exactly at the maximum extension of the shock. Remember that all nylon webbing will stretch slightly under the weight of a falling suspension arm. As a general rule of thumb, you should expect about one inch of stretch for every 12 inches of strap. For these 22-inch straps, we recommend mounting them so they are fully tight about 1.5 to 2 inches BEFORE your shock reaches its full extension or your CV joints reach their maximum operating angle. This ensures that when the strap stretches under load, it still stops the travel before any mechanical damage occurs.

2. Proper Mounting Hardware and Angles

Never use low-grade hardware to mount your limit straps. The force applied at the moment of full extension is immense. We strictly recommend using Grade 8 bolts and hardened washers. Additionally, ensure the strap is mounted as vertically as possible. If the strap is mounted at a severe angle, it has to work significantly harder to stop the downward momentum, which can lead to premature fraying or tab failure. Use spacers or "clevis" style mounts if necessary to ensure the strap has a straight pull and doesn''t rub against the shock body or the chassis during its range of motion.

3. Periodic Inspection and Maintenance

Limiting straps are a "wear item" in the world of off-road racing and recreational driving. After every major trip or race, you should inspect the webbing for any signs of fraying, "fuzzing," or cuts caused by debris or contact with other suspension components. Pay close attention to the area where the webbing meets the steel tabs; this is the highest stress point. If you see any broken stitches or if the strap has stretched beyond its safety margin, replace them immediately. Protecting your $1,000 shocks and $500 CV axles is well worth the investment of a fresh set of straps.