Gas Pedal Repair Kit, Fits Beetle 58-66, Ghia 56-66

OVERVIEW

Restore the crisp, responsive throttle feel your classic Volkswagen had when it first rolled off the assembly line with the EMPI Gas Pedal Repair Kit. Over decades of use, the accelerator pedal assembly in vintage Beetles and Ghias is notorious for developing excessive play, side-to-side wobble, or a "floppy" sensation that makes precise engine control nearly impossible. This wear usually occurs at the pivot point where the pedal meets the floor-mounted bracket, often caused by a fatigued return spring or a worn-down pivot pin. Ignoring a sloppy pedal doesn''t just ruin the driving experience; it can lead to accelerated wear on your throttle cable and potentially cause the pedal to bind at the most inconvenient times. At Appletree Automotive, we know that the connection between the driver and the engine starts at the sole of your shoe, and this comprehensive repair kit is the professional solution to eliminate mechanical slop in your pedal cluster.

This EMPI Gas Pedal Repair Kit (Part Number 98-7088-B) is engineered to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, providing a factory-fit finish for early-to-mid sixties air-cooled models. The kit includes the essential hardware required to completely overhaul the pivot mechanism, including a high-tension return spring that ensures your throttle snaps back to idle instantly when you lift off. Whether you are performing a full body-off restoration or simply performing routine maintenance to improve drivability, this kit saves you the headache of hunting down individual clips and pins. By replacing these high-friction components with new, precision-machined parts, you ensure that your throttle inputs are smooth, predictable, and safe. Don''t settle for a sticking gas pedal when a cost-effective, high-quality rebuild is just a few clicks away.

FITMENT

This repair kit is designed specifically for the following air-cooled Volkswagen models using the floor-mounted accelerator pedal configuration:

• Volkswagen Beetle (Type 1): 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (Type 14): 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966

SPECS

Technical specifications and component details for the EMPI Gas Pedal Repair Kit:

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 98-7088-B
• Cross-Reference OEM Number: 113-798-078
• Material: Heavy-duty spring steel and zinc-plated pivot hardware for corrosion resistance.
• Included Components: Main pivot pin, high-tension return spring, securing clip, and necessary washers.
• Installation Location: Floor-mounted pedal cluster assembly.
• Finish: Natural steel and zinc plating to prevent rust in the moisture-prone footwell area.
• Weight: Approximately 0.15 lbs.

PRO TIPS

1. Clean the Pedal Base Thoroughly

Before installing your new repair kit, take the time to thoroughly clean the floor-mounted pedal bracket and the base of the pedal itself. Over fifty years, these areas accumulate a thick "paste" of old grease, carpet fibers, and road grime. Use a wire brush or a degreaser to get down to bare metal on the pivot ears. This ensures the new pin sits perfectly flush and prevents abrasive debris from grinding down your new hardware. A clean surface also allows you to inspect the floor pan for any rust that might compromise the structural integrity of the pedal mount.

2. Use High-Quality Synthetic Grease

While the kit is designed for a precise fit, metal-on-metal contact will always eventually lead to wear. During assembly, apply a small amount of high-pressure synthetic grease or a lithium-based lubricant to the pivot pin and the contact points of the return spring. This not only makes the pedal feel "buttery smooth" under your foot but also creates a moisture barrier that prevents the components from seizing or squeaking in the future. Avoid using WD-40 or thin oils, as these will evaporate quickly and won''t provide the long-term lubrication required for a foot-operated control.

3. Inspect the Accelerator Cable and Tube

Since you will have the pedal assembly partially disassembled to install this kit, this is the perfect opportunity to inspect your accelerator cable. Pull the cable slightly forward to check for frayed strands near the pedal hook. Additionally, check the condition of the guide tube where the cable enters the center tunnel. If the cable feels "crunchy" or has significant resistance even with the pedal disconnected, you should replace the cable and lubricate the guide tube. A rebuilt pedal cluster paired with a fresh, lubricated cable will transform the way your VW drives, providing immediate throttle response and better fuel modulation.