Front Brake Spring Kit, Fits Super Beetle 71-79

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the safety and reliability of your classic air-cooled ride, there is no room for compromise, especially regarding the drum brake system of your 1971-1979 Super Beetle. Over decades of service, the original brake springs in your front drums undergo thousands of heat cycles, leading to metal fatigue, loss of tension, and eventual corrosion. This degradation often results in "brake drag," where the shoes fail to retract fully from the drum, causing premature wear on your expensive brake linings and overheating your wheel cylinders. Our premium Front Brake Spring Kit is engineered to restore that factory-fresh pedal feel and ensure your brake shoes are always positioned exactly where they need to be for maximum stopping power. Whether you are performing a full frame-off restoration or a weekend maintenance overhaul, replacing your old, rusted hardware with this high-quality kit is the most cost-effective insurance policy you can buy for your Super Beetle''s braking performance.

This comprehensive kit is specifically designed for the unique front drum brake configuration of the Super Beetle (1302 and 1303 models), providing enough hardware to completely service both the driver and passenger side front wheels. Unlike universal kits that often include "close enough" components, our kit features the exact spring rates and clip dimensions required for the 113-698-237H specification. Each component is manufactured from high-tensile spring steel and finished with a protective coating to resist the harsh environment of road salt, moisture, and high-friction heat. By installing this kit, you eliminate the annoying "clicking" or "clunking" sounds often associated with loose or broken return springs. At Appletree Auto, we know that a Volkswagen is only as good as the parts holding it together, and this hardware kit provides the professional-grade durability that enthusiasts demand for their daily drivers and show cars alike.

FITMENT

This kit is designed for the front drum brakes of the following Volkswagen models: Volkswagen Super Beetle Sedan: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975 Volkswagen Super Beetle Convertible: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979 Fits both 1302 and 1303 chassis designations. Note: This kit is specific to the MacPherson strut front end found on Super Beetles and will not fit standard torsion-bar Beetle front ends.

SPECS

• Part Number: 113-698-237H (Cross-reference: 98-6988-B)
• Material: Heavy-duty high-tensile spring steel.
• Finish: Corrosion-resistant Zinc plating for longevity.
• Kit Contents: Includes all necessary return springs, hold-down pins, hold-down cups, and tension springs.
• Application: Front Axle (services both Left and Right wheels).
• Compatibility: Designed for use with factory-style front brake shoes and drums.
• Weight: Approximately 0.25 lbs.

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: The One-Side-At-A-Time Rule

Even for seasoned VW veterans, the orientation of drum brake hardware can be confusing once everything is disassembled. We highly recommend only taking apart one wheel at a time. This allows you to use the fully assembled brake setup on the opposite side of the car as a visual reference for exactly where each spring and clip hooks in. Taking a high-resolution photo before you remove the old springs is also a lifesaver when you are trying to remember if the long hook of the return spring goes on the front or rear shoe.

Tip 2: Inspect Your Wheel Cylinders and Shoes

Since you already have the drums off and the hardware removed, this is the absolute best time to inspect your wheel cylinders for leaks and your brake shoes for uneven wear. Peel back the rubber dust boots on the wheel cylinders; if you see any signs of brake fluid (wetness), they are failing and should be replaced immediately. Additionally, ensure your star-adjusters are cleaned and lightly lubricated with high-temp brake grease so they turn freely, as seized adjusters are the leading cause of a "low pedal" feel in Super Beetles.

Tip 3: Use the Right Tool for the Job

While it is possible to install these springs using a pair of vise-grips or needle-nose pliers, we strongly suggest using a dedicated brake spring tool. These springs are under significant tension, and a slip with standard pliers can result in a flying spring or a painful injury to your hands. A proper brake tool allows you to lever the return springs into the shoe holes with minimal effort and maximum safety. Also, ensure the hold-down pins are seated vertically in the backing plate slots to prevent the shoes from "walking" or vibrating against the drum face while driving.