Weld On Disc Brake Caliper Mount, for Custom Arms, Each

OVERVIEW

When you are pushing the limits of your air-cooled VW off-road, stock braking systems and standard mounting solutions often fall short of the demands of the terrain. The EMPI Weld-On Disc Brake Caliper Mount is the professional-grade solution for fabricators and enthusiasts who are building custom boxed arms or high-clearance trailing arms. This heavy-duty steel bracket provides a rock-solid foundation for your braking system, ensuring that your calipers remain perfectly aligned even under the extreme stress of desert racing, rock crawling, or high-speed trail runs. By opting for a weld-on solution rather than a traditional bolt-on adapter, you eliminate the potential for flex and hardware failure in high-leverage situations, giving you the confidence to dive deeper into corners and maintain absolute control on the steepest descents. It is the ultimate choice for those who believe that "good enough" is never enough when it comes to stopping power.

Engineered specifically to accommodate the reliable OEM-style 2-piston VW caliper, this mount is an essential component for any custom suspension project that moves beyond the constraints of factory geometry. Whether you are constructing a high-performance Woods Buggy, a wide-track Sand Rail, or a rugged Baja Bug with 3x3 trailing arms, these brackets offer the necessary versatility for unique fabrications. Because these mounts require professional welding, they allow for precise "clocking" and positioning of the caliper to ensure maximum clearance for bypass shocks, limit straps, or intricate chassis components. This isn''t just a simple mounting tab; it is a critical piece of hardware designed to bridge the gap between legendary VW reliability and modern off-road performance. At Appletree Automotive, we know that custom builds require custom solutions, and this bracket is a staple in the toolboxes of the world''s most serious VW fabricators.

FITMENT

This is a weld-on, universal fabrication component designed for custom air-cooled VW applications. It is most commonly used on the following:

• VW Beetle & Baja Bug: Custom IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) configurations and boxed trailing arms.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Ideal for custom 2x3, 3x3, or larger aftermarket trailing arms.
• Karmann Ghia: Custom rear disc brake conversions utilizing fabricated suspension components.
• Type 3 Squareback, Fastback, & Notchback: Custom performance builds requiring upgraded rear caliper mounting.
• VW Thing (Type 181): Off-road builds with reinforced or custom-fabricated rear arms.
• Woods Buggies: Specifically designed for extreme environments where bolt-on brackets may fail.

SPECS

• Product Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 17-2679-0
• Material: High-tensile raw steel (optimized for welding).
• Thread Pitch: M10 x 1.25 (Standard for OEM style calipers).
• Caliper Compatibility: Designed for OEM 2-piston "Ghia style" calipers.
• Installation Type: Weld-on fabrication required.
• Quantity: Sold individually (Each).
• Weight: Approximately 1.72 lbs.
• Application: Custom trailing arms and boxed arm conversions.

PRO TIPS

1. Perfect Alignment with a Jig

To ensure your brakes don''t drag or wear unevenly, never "eye-ball" the placement of these brackets. We highly recommend using an old brake rotor and the actual caliper you plan to use as a jig. Install the pads into the caliper, place it over the rotor, and apply compressed air to the caliper inlet to "lock" the pads onto the rotor. This centers the bracket perfectly over the rotor edge. Once centered, tack weld the bracket in at least four spots before removing the caliper and rotor to finish the final beads. This ensures the bracket stays perfectly perpendicular to the axle centerline.

2. Critical Surface Preparation

Since these are raw steel, they may arrive with a light coat of shipping oil to prevent rust. Before you even think about striking an arc, you must clean the bracket and your trailing arm with a high-quality degreaser or acetone. Use a flap disc to grind the mating surfaces down to bright, shiny metal. Any contamination in the weld can lead to porosity, which compromises the structural integrity of your braking system. Remember, your stopping distance depends entirely on the strength of these welds, so take the extra ten minutes to prep the metal properly.

3. Manage Heat to Prevent Distortion

When welding heavy steel brackets to trailing arms, it is easy to get the metal too hot, which can lead to warping or "pulling" the bracket out of alignment. We suggest welding in short increments, alternating sides to distribute the heat evenly. If you are welding these to a boxed arm, be mindful of the heat soak into the internal structures of the arm. Once the welding is complete, allow the assembly to air-cool slowly. Never quench the weld with water, as this can make the steel brittle. Once cooled, paint or powder-coat the area immediately to prevent oxidation and ensure a professional, long-lasting finish.