Type 1 Bulk Head Thru 50-65

Product Overview: The Foundation of Your Vintage Restoration

The foundation of any high-quality vintage Volkswagen restoration begins with a structurally sound chassis, and for the 1950-1965 Beetle, the frame head is the most critical component of that foundation. Over decades of service, the original bulkhead often falls victim to the notorious "VW cancer"rust that eats away at the metal where the front beam attaches. This EMPI Type 1 Bulk Head (Frame Head) is engineered to provide a factory-correct replacement for your aging or damaged chassis. By replacing the entire frame head rather than attempting to patch thin, compromised metal, you ensure that your front suspension geometry remains precise, which is essential for proper wheel alignment, steering response, and overall vehicle safety. Whether you are building a concours-level restoration or a rugged sand rail, starting with a fresh, heavy-gauge steel bulkhead is the only way to guarantee your project stands the test of time.

Specifically designed for the "King and Link Pin" era of the Type 1 chassis, this frame head serves as the mounting point for the front axle beam and the master cylinder. Because this era of Volkswagen utilized a specific front-end geometry distinct from later ball-joint models, using a year-specific part like the 113-701-037B is non-negotiable for a proper fit. This unit is stamped from high-quality steel to match the original contours and structural reinforcements of the factory piece. It provides the necessary rigidity to handle the stresses of the road while maintaining the classic look of a period-correct pan. Please note that while this unit is the primary structural bulkhead, it does not include the "Napoleon Hat" (chassis crossmember), allowing you to customize your repair based on the specific condition of your existing floor pan and tunnel.

Vehicle Fitment and Compatibility

This frame head is designed for early-model Type 1 chassis configurations. Please verify your front suspension type before ordering, as this is strictly for King and Link Pin front ends.

• Volkswagen Beetle (Sedan & Sunroof): 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965.
• Volkswagen Beetle (Convertible): 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965.
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Baja Bugs utilizing a 1950-1965 shortened or standard length Type 1 chassis.

Technical Specifications

Detailed dimensions and material data for the EMPI 113-701-037B Bulk Head:

• Part Number: 113-701-037B (Alt PN: 98-5225-B)
• Material: Heavy-duty stamped carbon steel.
• Finish: Black weldable shipping primer (designed for rust prevention during transit).
• Dimensions: 31 inches (L) x 16 inches (W) x 7 inches (H).
• Weight: 15.43 lbs (Approx. 7kg).
• Suspension Type: King and Link Pin (K&L).
• Mounting Hardware: Not included (Reuse or replace existing high-tensile bolts).
• GTIN: 707924486872.

Expert Pro Tips for a Successful Installation

1. Use a Chassis Jig for Perfect Alignment

When you cut the old frame head off your tunnel, you are removing the primary reference point for your front suspension. It is absolutely vital that you use a chassis jig or a carefully constructed brace to hold the new frame head in the exact position of the original. Even a 1/8-inch deviation can lead to a car that "crabs" down the road or cannot be properly aligned. Measure three times and tack-weld everything into place before performing the final deep-penetration welds. Don''t forget to check the caster angle to ensure your Beetle handles as the factory intended.

2. Thoroughly Prep the Welding Surface

The black coating found on this frame head is a shipping primer designed to prevent flash rust while the part is in the warehouse; it is NOT a final paint or a weld-through primer. You must grind or sand this coating off in any area where you plan to weld. Welding through shipping primer creates a porous, brittle weld that is prone to cracking under the stress of front-end loads. Once the welding is complete, we highly recommend using a high-quality epoxy primer and a chassis-specific topcoat or undercoating to seal the internal and external surfaces from moisture.

3. Inspect and Replace the Napoleon Hat

Since this frame head (113-701-037B) does not include the "Napoleon Hat" chassis crossmember, you should perform a rigorous inspection of your existing crossmember before beginning the swap. In many cases, if the frame head is rusted through, the Napoleon Hat is also compromised where it meets the floor pans. It is much easier to replace both components simultaneously while the front of the chassis is disassembled. Doing the job right the first time ensures that the front of your pan is stiff and provides a solid seal for the body-to-chassis gasket, preventing future leaks into the footwell.