Rear Brake Hose Swing Axle, Beetle 50-67, Bus 68-79

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the safety and reliability of your vintage air-cooled Volkswagen, nothing is more critical than the integrity of your braking system. This premium EMPI Rear Brake Hose for swing axle Beetles and late-model Buses is designed to restore factory-level pedal feel and stopping power. Over decades of service, original rubber hoses are subjected to extreme heat, road debris, and the corrosive effects of moisture-laden brake fluid. This leads to dry rotting on the outside and, more dangerously, internal swelling that isn''t visible to the naked eye. By replacing your aging lines with these high-quality, reinforced rubber hoses, you ensure that hydraulic pressure is transmitted efficiently to the wheel cylinders, providing the consistent performance you need for modern traffic conditions.

A common yet often overlooked issue in the VW community is the "one-way valve" phenomenon caused by collapsing internal walls within the brake hose. When these hoses fail internally, they allow fluid to reach the wheel cylinder under the high pressure of the brake pedal, but the weakened inner lining prevents the fluid from returning to the master cylinder when the pedal is released. This results in dragging shoes, overheated drums, and premature wear on your expensive braking components. Whether you are performing a full frame-off restoration or simply conducting routine maintenance on your daily driver, installing new 270mm female-to-female hoses is the smartest "cheap insurance" you can buy. These hoses are engineered to meet or exceed OEM standards, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of the road while maintaining the flexibility required for the movement of the swing axle suspension.

FITMENT

This rear brake hose is a versatile component that fits several different years and positions depending on your specific VW model. Please review the fitment guide below carefully to ensure you are ordering the correct quantity for your project:

• VW Beetle (Swing Axle Models): 1950-1967 (Rear Left or Right)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956-1968 (Rear Left or Right)
• VW Bus (Type 2): 1955-1967 (Rear Left or Right)
• VW Bus (Type 2): 1968-1979 (Right Rear ONLY - Note: Left side may differ on late models)

SPECS

Precision engineering ensures that these hoses fit perfectly into your existing hard line brackets without modification.

• Part Number: 211-611-775B
• Total Length: 10 9/16 inches (270mm)
• Fitting End 1: Female (M10x1.0 Thread)
• Fitting End 2: Female (M10x1.0 Thread)
• Material: High-pressure synthetic rubber with multi-layer textile reinforcement
• Fittings: Zinc-plated steel for maximum corrosion resistance and durability
• Compatibility: Compatible with DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1 brake fluids

PRO TIPS

1. The "Free Spin" Diagnostic Test

If you suspect your brake hoses are failing, perform this simple test before tear-down. Safely lift your VW on jack stands and spin the rear wheel by hand while a friend applies the brakes. When they release the pedal, the wheel should spin freely immediately. If the wheel remains tight or difficult to turn for several seconds, but then spins freely after you momentarily open the bleeder valve on the wheel cylinder, your hose has collapsed internally. This confirms that the hose is acting as a check valve, trapping pressure at the wheel and necessitating immediate replacement of both rear hoses.

2. Always Use a Flare Nut Wrench

One of the most common mistakes during a VW brake job is using a standard open-end wrench on the brake line fittings. These fittings are often seized due to years of road grime and moisture. A standard wrench only grips two sides of the nut and will almost certainly round off the corners, turning a simple 10-minute job into a nightmare. Always use a dedicated 11mm flare nut wrench (also known as a line wrench) to break the hard line loose from the rubber hose. This tool grips the nut on five sides, providing the torque necessary to break the seal without damaging the hardware.

3. Inspect and Clean Your Retaining Clips

When you remove the old hose, take a moment to inspect the spring steel retaining clips that hold the hose to the chassis bracket. These clips are vital for preventing the hose from rubbing against the axle tube or spring plate. If the clips are rusted or have lost their tension, replace them along with the hoses. Before installing the new EMPI hose, use a wire brush to clean the mounting bracket surface. A clean seat ensures the hose sits flush and the clip slides into the groove properly, preventing vibrations that could lead to a fatigue failure of the hard lines over time.