5 Rib & Gt-5 Wheel Replacement Cap, Includes Hardware, Each

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the iconic look of an air-cooled Volkswagen, the details are what truly set a build apart. The EMPI 5-Rib and GT-5 wheels are legendary in the VW community, offering a vintage racing aesthetic that harkens back to the golden era of Cal-Look and Baja styling. However, nothing ruins the clean lines of a freshly polished wheel like a missing, cracked, or pitted center cap. This genuine EMPI replacement cap is engineered to restore that showroom finish to your 5-Rib or GT-5 series wheels. Crafted with a high-luster chrome finish, this cap provides a seamless match to your existing wheels, ensuring that your Beetle, Karmann Ghia, or Bus maintains its show-winning appearance whether you''re cruising the local strip or hitting the open highway.

This isn''t just a simple plastic cover; it is a complete restoration kit for your wheel''s center bore. Each cap comes equipped with high-quality stainless steel mounting hardware to prevent the unsightly rust streaks often seen with inferior zinc-plated fasteners. Additionally, EMPI includes the signature logo sticker, allowing you to choose the perfect orientation for a professional, symmetrical look across all four corners of your vehicle. Designed specifically for EMPI part numbers ranging from 9662 to 9751, this cap offers a precision fit that eliminates rattles and stays secure even under the vibrations common in air-cooled engines. Don''t settle for a "close enough" fitment when you can have the exact component designed by the original manufacturer to keep your classic VW looking its absolute best.

FITMENT

This replacement center cap is designed specifically for EMPI 5-Rib and GT-5 series wheels. While these wheels are often used on various years, they are most commonly found on the following vehicles utilizing the 5x205mm bolt pattern:

• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle / Bug (1954-1967)
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus / Transporter / Kombi (1954-1970)
• Volkswagen Type 3: Fastback / Squareback / Notchback (1961-1965)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: (1956-1966)
• Volkswagen Thing: (Check wheel offset and pattern)
• Custom Applications: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Manx-style bodies using EMPI 5-Rib or GT-5 wheels.
• Specific EMPI Wheel Part Numbers: 9662, 9686, 9687, 9690, 9691, 9695, 9696, 9750, and 9751.

SPECS

Ensure your wheel is compatible by reviewing the technical dimensions and material specifications below:

• Material: High-impact, chrome-plated ABS plastic.
• Hardware: Includes stainless steel mounting screws to prevent corrosion.
• Center Emblem: Includes self-adhesive EMPI logo sticker.
• Outside Diameter: 3.1 inches (measured at the base, excluding mounting tabs).
• Protrusion: 1.7 inches (the distance the cap sticks out from the wheel face).
• Finish: Triple-process chrome for a mirror-like shine.
• Quantity: Sold individually (Each).
• Mounting Style: Bolt-on design for maximum security against theft or vibration loss.

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Avoid Over-Tightening the Fasteners

Because these caps are constructed from chrome-plated plastic, it is vital that you do not over-torque the stainless steel mounting screws. Over-tightening can lead to stress fractures around the mounting holes or even crack the plastic base entirely. We recommend using a handheld screwdriver rather than a power tool. Tighten the screws until they are snug and the cap is seated firmly against the wheel. For added peace of mind, a tiny drop of blue (removable) thread locker on the screw threads will prevent them from backing out due to road vibration without requiring excessive force.

Tip 2: Maintain the Chrome Finish Correcty

To keep these caps looking brand new for years, you must be careful with your cleaning regimen. Many modern "wheel cleaners" contain harsh acids or alkaline chemicals designed to eat brake dust off modern alloy wheels; these chemicals can dull or peel the chrome plating on plastic caps. Always use a pH-balanced soap and water solution to clean your caps. After washing, apply a high-quality automotive wax or a synthetic sealant. This creates a sacrificial barrier that prevents road salt and brake dust from pitting the finish, making future cleanups much easier.

Tip 3: Precision Sticker Application

The EMPI logo sticker is the finishing touch, but it requires a steady hand for a professional look. Before peeling the backing, use a degreaser or isopropyl alcohol to clean the recessed area on the top of the cap where the sticker will sit. Any residual oils or wax will prevent the adhesive from bonding permanently. Once clean, dry-fit the sticker to see how you want it oriented. For a "pro-level" detail, ensure the logo is oriented the same way on all four wheels relative to the valve stem. Press firmly from the center outward to ensure there are no trapped air bubbles under the emblem.