Wilwood Front Brake Kit, Super Beetle, Red

OVERVIEW

When it comes to stopping power for your air-cooled classic, the EMPI Wilwood Front Brake Kit for the Super Beetle represents the pinnacle of performance and safety. Engineered through a premier partnership between EMPI and Wilwood, this kit replaces the often-inadequate stock drum or standard disc setups with a modern, high-clamping force system that is designed to handle the demands of today''s driving conditions. The vibrant red powder-coated Wilwood calipers don''t just provide a striking visual upgrade behind your wheels; they offer superior thermal stability and a significant reduction in unsprung weight. Whether you are navigating tight canyon roads or simply want the peace of mind that comes with professional-grade braking, this kit delivers consistent, fade-free performance that transforms the driving dynamics of your Super Beetle.

This comprehensive conversion kit is designed for a true bolt-on installation, utilizing precision-machined mounting brackets and high-quality SKF bearings to ensure a perfect fit and long-term reliability. One of the standout features of this kit is the double-drilled rotors, which provide incredible versatility for wheel selection. Featuring both the 5x130 Porsche bolt pattern (with 14x1.5mm threads) and the 5x4.75 Chevy/GM bolt pattern (with 12mm threads), it allows you to run classic Fuchs-style wheels or popular domestic-style wheels without the need for adapters. Every component, from the high-performance Wilwood brake pads to the included stainless steel brake lines and dust caps, has been curated to provide a seamless upgrade experience that elevates your VW''s braking system to modern standards.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Super Beetle (Sedan & Convertible): 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• Specific Model Notes: Designed specifically for the MacPherson strut front suspension found on 1302 and 1303 models.

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI in partnership with Wilwood
• Caliper Type: Wilwood High-Performance 4-Piston Calipers
• Caliper Finish: High-Temp Red Powder Coat
• Rotor Style: Double-Drilled Solid Rotor
• Bolt Pattern 1: 5x130mm (Porsche) with 14x1.5mm Threaded Holes
• Bolt Pattern 2: 5x4.75 inch (GM/Chevy) with 12mm Threaded Holes
• Bearing Type: Premium SKF Wheel Bearings
• Brake Pads: Wilwood High-Performance Friction Compound
• Hardware Included: Mounting Brackets, Caliper Bolts, Dust Caps, and Brake Lines
• Part Number: 22-6149-R

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Bearing Packing is Critical

When installing the included SKF bearings, don''t just smear grease on the outside. You must properly "pack" the bearings by forcing high-quality wheel bearing grease into the cage and around the rollers until it oozes out the other side. Using a bearing packer tool or the "palm of the hand" method ensures that there are no dry spots. Failure to properly pack these bearings can lead to premature failure and spindle damage, especially with the increased braking forces generated by the Wilwood calipers.

2. Verify Master Cylinder Compatibility

While this kit is a bolt-on at the spindles, it''s highly recommended that you inspect your master cylinder. If you are converting from a drum brake setup to this 4-piston disc setup, ensure you are running a dual-circuit master cylinder designed for disc brakes. These calipers require a specific volume of fluid to operate at peak efficiency. Additionally, check your residual pressure valves; disc brakes typically do not require the 10lb residual valves used in drum systems, and keeping them in the line can lead to brake drag and excessive heat buildup.

3. Follow the Wilwood Bedding Procedure

To get the most out of your new Wilwood pads and rotors, you must perform a proper bedding-in procedure. Don''t just drive away and slam on the brakes. You should perform a series of controlled stops from 35-45 MPH down to 5 MPH with moderate pedal pressure, followed by a series of stops from 55-65 MPH. This allows a uniform layer of friction material to transfer from the pads to the rotor surface. Once complete, allow the brakes to cool down completely without holding the pedal down while stationary. This process ensures maximum stopping power and prevents "brake judder" or uneven wear in the future.