Universal Disc Brake Caliper, Fits Front & Rear VW

OVERVIEW

When it comes to stopping power, your air-cooled VW deserves better than aging drum brakes or seized, crusty calipers that have seen decades of road grime. This EMPI Universal Disc Brake Caliper is the go-to solution for enthusiasts looking for a reliable, no-nonsense replacement that fits both the left and right sides of your vehicle. Whether you are running a classic Beetle, a sleek Karmann Ghia, or a rugged sand rail, this caliper offers the versatility and clamping force needed to bring your ride to a safe and controlled halt. Designed to work seamlessly with front disc brake conversions or as a replacement for non-emergency brake rear disc kits, this unit eliminates the guesswork often associated with finding specific left or right-hand parts. This makes it an essential addition to any garage workbench or off-road trail kit where simplicity and reliability are paramount.

Engineered with a heavy-duty cast steel body, this caliper is built to withstand the intense heat and mechanical stress of daily commuting as well as the abrasive grit and grime of the desert floor. It comes fully loaded with high-quality brake pads, so you can get back on the road or trail without the additional hassle of sourcing separate components. The precision-machined 10mm mounting holes and the standard 2.25-inch mounting spread ensure a straightforward bolt-on installation for most common VW disc brake brackets. Don''t settle for a spongy pedal feel or uneven braking performance; upgrading to these robust calipers provides the consistent, firm response that gives you the confidence to push your air-cooled engine to its limits, knowing your stopping hardware is more than up to the task.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle: 1966-1977 (Models equipped with front disc brakes or disc conversions)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1966-1974
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1966-1973
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All years using standard VW-style front or non-ebrake rear disc brake brackets
• VW Super Beetle: 1971-1979 (With disc brake conversion kits)

SPECS

• Part Number: 311-615-107/8
• Location: Front or Rear (Non-E-Brake applications only)
• Orientation: Universal (Fits Left or Right side)
• Material: Heavy-Duty Cast Steel
• Mounting Hole Size: 10mm
• Mounting Hole Spread: 2.25 Inches (Center to Center)
• Included Components: Brake Pads (Pre-installed)
• Replacement Pad SKU: 22-2890-0
• Finish: Natural Cast
• Weight: 6.13 lbs

PRO TIPS

1. Orient the Bleeder Screw Correctly

Because these calipers are universal, they can be mounted on either side of the vehicle. The golden rule for any VW disc brake installation is to ensure that the bleeder screw is pointing upward when the caliper is mounted. If the bleeder screw is at the bottom, air will remain trapped at the top of the piston chamber, resulting in a perpetually spongy brake pedal that no amount of bleeding will fix. Always double-check your orientation before tightening your brake lines to save yourself hours of frustration during the bleeding process.

2. Perform a Proper Pad Bedding Procedure

To get the maximum lifespan and stopping power out of the included brake pads, you must perform a proper bedding-in process. After installation, find a safe, open road and perform a series of 5 to 10 gradual stops from 35 mph down to 5 mph without coming to a complete standstill. This allows the pad material to transfer evenly onto the rotor surface. Avoid "panic" stops or holding the brake pedal down firmly at a stoplight immediately after installation, as this can cause uneven material transfer and lead to brake pulsation or "warped" rotor symptoms.

3. Check Clearance and Line Routing

When installing these on a custom dune buggy or an off-road rail, always cycle your suspension and steering from lock to lock. Because these calipers sit differently than stock drum setups, you need to ensure your flexible brake hoses have enough slack and aren''t being pinched or stretched during travel. We highly recommend using stainless steel braided brake lines with these calipers to eliminate hose expansion and ensure that the increased clamping pressure is delivered directly to the pistons for the firmest pedal feel possible.