27 Axle 28 Splines Pair for 930 CV Joints

OVERVIEW

When you are pushing the limits of your off-road machine or building a high-horsepower street sleeper, the factory-style swing axle or standard IRS components simply won''t cut it. These EMPI 27-inch Chromoly axles are engineered specifically for enthusiasts who demand the ultimate in strength and reliability. Designed to interface perfectly with 930-style CV joints, these axles offer the increased articulation and torque capacity required for long-travel suspension setups. By utilizing high-grade chromoly steel and a precision-machined 28-spline profile, these axles provide a massive upgrade over stock units, ensuring that your power makes it to the ground without the fear of snapping a shaft in the middle of a climb or a high-speed desert run.

Each axle in this pair is finished with a durable zinc plating to resist the harsh elements, whether you are battling the salt of the dunes or the mud of the trails. At 27 inches in length, these are the go-to choice for custom wide-beam or long-arm IRS configurations found on modern sand rails, Baja Bugs, and custom Dune Buggies. The 2-1/2 inch spline length allows for the necessary "float" within the CV joint, preventing binding during extreme suspension travel. When you choose these EMPI axles from Appletree Automotive, you are investing in a drivetrain component that has been proven in the most demanding off-road environments. Don''t let a weak link ruin your weekend; upgrade to the industry standard for high-performance VW-based transaxle systems.

FITMENT

These axles are designed for custom high-performance applications and are typically used in conjunction with 930 CV joint conversion kits. Common fitments include:

• Volkswagen Beetle (IRS): Custom long-travel or wide-track rear suspension setups.
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: Performance builds utilizing 930 CV conversions.
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): Off-road builds requiring increased axle length and strength.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Specifically for mid-engine or rear-engine chassis with wide-track trailing arms.
• Baja Bugs: Ideal for Class 5 or Class 11 style builds with modified IRS geometry.
• Custom Rail Frames: Fits Berrien, Chenowth, and other popular off-road chassis using 930 CV joints.

SPECS

• Overall Length: 27 Inches.
• Spline Count: 28 Splines (Industry standard for 930 CVs).
• Spline Length: 2-1/2 Inches for maximum engagement and float.
• Material: High-Strength Chromoly Steel.
• Finish: Zinc Plated for superior corrosion and rust resistance.
• CV Compatibility: Designed specifically for 930 (Porsche Style) CV Joints.
• Quantity: Sold as a Pair (2 Axles).
• Weight: Approximately 7.6 lbs per axle.
• Application: Heavy-duty off-road and high-performance street IRS systems.

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Axle Float is Critical

When installing 27-inch axles in a long-travel suspension, it is absolutely vital to check for "axle float" at both ends of the suspension cycle. At full droop and full compression, the axle should still have a small amount of lateral movement within the CV joints. If the axle "bottoms out" or reaches the end of its travel within the CV, it will act like a solid punch against your transaxle or wheel flange, leading to catastrophic failure of the CV cages or the transaxle side gears. Always cycle your suspension without the springs or shocks installed to verify that the axle remains free to move throughout the entire range of motion.

2. Optimize Grease and Boot Longevity

The 930 CV joints used with these axles generate significant heat due to the high angles they can achieve. We recommend using a high-quality, high-temperature Moly-based grease specifically formulated for off-road CV joints. When packing the joints, avoid over-filling the boots. Over-filled boots can expand like a balloon as they heat up, causing them to rub against the axle or even pop off the flange. A properly packed joint should have grease worked into the ball bearings and cage, with only a small reserve in the boot itself to allow for expansion and movement.

3. Clocking and Alignment for Strength

To maximize the lifespan of your drivetrain, pay attention to the "clocking" of your CV joints during installation. While some debate the necessity, many top-tier desert racers align the inner and outer CV joints so that the balls and cages are in the same orientation relative to each other. More importantly, ensure that your trailing arms are properly aligned and that your transaxle is centered. If the transaxle is slightly offset, one axle will be operating at a steeper angle than the other, leading to uneven wear and potential vibration. Using these 27-inch chromoly axles gives you the strength you need, but proper geometry is what keeps them spinning season after season.