228mm Clutch Disc, Sprung, for Type 2 Bus 76-79

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the drivetrain of your late-model Bay Window or Vanagon, there is simply no room for compromise. This Sachs 228mm Sprung Clutch Disc represents the pinnacle of German-engineered reliability for the Volkswagen Type 2 Bus. As every air-cooled enthusiast knows, the heavier 1976-1979 Bus and subsequent Vanagon models require a clutch that can handle the increased torque and weight of the larger Type 4 and water-boxed engines. This genuine Sachs disc is designed to provide the precise engagement and long-term durability that Appletree Auto customers demand. Whether you are navigating steep mountain passes in a fully loaded Westfalia camper or stop-and-go city traffic, this disc ensures that every bit of horsepower is transferred efficiently to the transaxle without slippage or premature wear.

The "sprung center" design of this 228mm disc is a critical upgrade for any street-driven Volkswagen. Unlike rigid discs that transfer every vibration and shock load directly into your transmission, the integrated dampening springs in this unit act as a shock absorber for your drivetrain. This significantly reduces "gear rattle" at idle and provides a much smoother take-off, protecting your expensive transaxle internals from harsh engagement. Because this is a high-quality organic friction material, it offers a broad engagement window that is forgiving for daily driving while still maintaining the grip necessary for heavy-duty applications. Don''t settle for inferior, no-name replacements when you can install the same brand that Volkswagen trusted on the assembly line. It''s the ultimate insurance policy for your Bus''s performance and longevity.

FITMENT

• VW Type 2 Bus: 1976 - 1979 (Models with 2.0L Type 4 Engine)
• VW Vanagon (Air-Cooled): 1980 - 1983 (2.0L Models)
• VW Vanagon (Water-Cooled): 1983.5 - 1991 (1.9L and 2.1L Models)
• Custom Applications: Any VW engine utilizing a 228mm flywheel and a 24-spline input shaft.

SPECS

• Diameter: 228mm (Approximately 9 inches)
• Hub Style: Sprung Center (4-Spring Dampening System)
• Spline Count: 24-Spline
• Friction Material: High-Performance Organic Compound
• Manufacturer: Sachs
• OEM Part Number: 025-141-031D
• Shipping Weight: 3.1 lbs
• Construction: Heavy-duty riveted steel carrier with premium bonded linings

PRO TIPS

PRO TIP 1: Cleanliness is Key to Clutch Life. Before you even think about sliding this new disc onto the input shaft, you must ensure your flywheel and pressure plate surfaces are surgically clean. Use a high-quality brake cleaner and a lint-free rag to remove every trace of shipping oil or grease from the metal mating surfaces. Any oil contamination on the friction material will lead to "chatter" or permanent slipping, ruining the disc before you even finish the break-in period. Always handle the disc with clean hands or gloves to avoid transferring skin oils to the organic lining.

PRO TIP 2: Inspect Your Seals and Bearings. Since you already have the engine pulled, it is the absolute best time to inspect the "Holy Trinity" of clutch maintenance: the rear main seal, the transmission input shaft seal, and the pilot bearing (or bushing) in the gland nut. If your rear main seal is leaking even a tiny amount, it will eventually soak this new Sachs disc in oil, causing it to fail. Additionally, always check your throw-out bearing for smoothness; if it feels gritty or makes noise when spun by hand, replace it now to avoid pulling the engine again in six months.

PRO TIP 3: Use the Correct Alignment Tool. Never attempt to "eyeball" the alignment of the clutch disc. Even a fraction of a millimeter of misalignment will make it nearly impossible to mate the engine back to the transmission, and forcing it can bend the center hub of your brand-new disc. Use a dedicated 24-spline VW clutch alignment tool to lock the disc in the exact center of the flywheel before tightening the pressure plate bolts. Tighten the pressure plate bolts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure and prevent warping the pressure plate housing during installation.