Black Emergency Brake Handle kit. Fits Beetle & Dune Bugg

OVERVIEW

Restore the safety and tactical precision of your air-cooled Volkswagen''s braking system with the EMPI Black Emergency Brake Handle Kit. Over decades of use, the original factory parking brake handle often suffers from rounded-off ratchet teeth, weakened internal springs, or a general "sloppy" feel that makes it difficult to trust your vehicle on an incline. This comprehensive kit is designed to eliminate that guesswork by replacing the entire handle assembly with a high-strength, steel-constructed unit that provides a crisp, mechanical engagement every time you pull it. Whether you are finishing a ground-up restoration or simply tired of your Beetle rolling after you park, this kit offers the structural integrity required for peace of mind.

Beyond its mechanical utility, the EMPI Black Emergency Brake Handle Kit serves as a significant aesthetic upgrade for your interior. Finished in a sleek, durable black coating, this handle is perfect for custom dune buggies, sand rails, or "blacked-out" Beetle interiors where the standard chrome or weathered grey look just won''t cut it. The kit is engineered to be a direct replacement for the OEM unit (Reference Number 113-798-305CR), ensuring that you won''t have to struggle with improper fitment or modified mounting points. By choosing this all-in-one solution, you receive the handle, the internal gears, and all necessary hardware, making it a straightforward Saturday afternoon project that drastically improves both the functionality and the cockpit appearance of your classic VW.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1950 through 1977 (Sedan & Convertible)
• Volkswagen Type 1 Super Beetle: 1971 through 1979
• Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: 1973 through 1974
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All models utilizing a standard VW Type 1 chassis or floor pan.
• Meyers Manx: Traditional kits using Volkswagen Type 1 mechanicals.

SPECS

• Material: High-Grade Heavy-Duty Stamped Steel
• Finish: Corrosion-Resistant Satin Black
• OEM Reference: 113-798-305CR
• Kit Components: Main Brake Handle, Internal Ratchet Gear, Release Button, Tension Spring, Pivot Pin, and Locking Clips.
• Operation: Manual Ratcheting Pull with Push-Button Release.
• Weight: Approximately 1.0 lb.
• Installation Style: Direct Bolt-On replacement for factory tunnel-mounted handles.

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Lubricate the Ratchet Mechanism Before Installation

While the kit comes ready to install, we highly recommend applying a small amount of high-quality white lithium grease or synthetic assembly lube to the internal ratchet teeth and the pivot pin. This reduces friction during the "clicking" phase of engagement and prevents metal-on-metal wear over time. A well-lubricated handle provides a much smoother pull and ensures the release button doesn''t stick when you are ready to drive away. Make sure to wipe away any excess grease to prevent it from attracting dust from the floorboards.

Tip 2: Verify Your Cable Adjustment for Safety

Installing a new handle is the perfect time to inspect and adjust your emergency brake cables. For the best performance, you should adjust the nuts at the base of the handle so that the brakes fully engage within 3 to 5 "clicks" of the handle. If you have to pull the handle all the way to the top to hold the car, your cables are too loose, which puts unnecessary leverage stress on the new handle assembly. Conversely, if it is too tight, your brake shoes may drag while driving, leading to premature wear and overheating.

Tip 3: Don''t Forget the Rubber Boot and Pin Retainer

To give your installation a professional, factory-fresh look, we recommend installing a new rubber emergency brake boot at the same time as the handle. This prevents dirt, debris, and small items from falling into the tunnel and interfering with the shift rod or the brake cables. Additionally, when installing the pivot pin, ensure that the retaining clip is fully seated in its groove. A loose pin can cause the handle to twist under pressure, which can lead to the ratchet teeth slipping or failing when you need the parking brake most.