Single Handle Turning Brake, With Angled Handle

OVERVIEW

If you have ever found yourself struggling to navigate a tight hairpin turn on a narrow wooded trail or trying to pivot your sand rail on the crest of a massive dune, you know that standard steering often falls short. The EMPI Single Handle Turning Brake, featuring a precision-engineered angled handle, is the ultimate solution for off-road enthusiasts who demand total control over their vehicle''s agility. Often referred to as a "cutting brake," this unit allows you to bypass the traditional limitations of a transaxle by applying hydraulic pressure to a single rear wheel. By locking one wheel while the other continues to provide drive, you can effectively "pivot" your Volkswagen-based off-road machine around its own axis. This is not just a luxury; it is a critical performance upgrade for anyone serious about technical off-roading, rock crawling, or competitive sand drags where every inch of turning radius counts.

Beyond its mechanical utility, this EMPI turning brake is a show-quality component that elevates the aesthetics of any air-cooled cockpit. The body is crafted from high-grade aluminum with a brilliant polished finish that resists corrosion and looks sharp for years to come. The handle is chrome-plated for maximum durability and features a classic black ball grip for a secure, tactile feel during high-stress maneuvers. The angled handle design is specifically intended to bring the lever closer to the driver''s hand, clearing standard shifters and center consoles while providing superior leverage. Whether you are building a hardcore Baja Bug, a lightweight tube-chassis sand rail, or a purpose-built woods buggy, this 3/4-inch bore master cylinder setup provides the perfect balance of hydraulic pressure and pedal feel to ensure your rear brakes respond exactly when you need them to.

FITMENT

This is a universal hydraulic component designed primarily for air-cooled VW transaxle applications. While it is a custom-install item, it is most commonly used on the following models:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1946 through 1979 (Baja Bug and Off-road configurations).
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974 (Custom builds).
• Volkswagen Bus (Type 2): 1950 through 1979 (Off-road conversions).
• Volkswagen Type 3: 1961 through 1973 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback).
• Dune Buggies: All years (Meyers Manx, Berry Mini T, etc.).
• Sand Rails & Tube Chassis Buggies: All custom configurations.
• Woods Buggies: Custom VW-based builds.

SPECS

• Part Number: 16-2541-0
• Bore Size: 3/4 Inch (Optimized for standard VW rear wheel cylinders and calipers).
• Handle Style: Single Lever, Angled for improved ergonomics.
• Body Material: High-Polished Cast Aluminum.
• Handle Finish: Triple-Plated Chrome.
• Grip: Threaded Black Plastic Ball.
• Inlet/Outlet Ports: 1/8-inch NPT (Standard for hydraulic brake fittings).
• Mounting: Two-bolt base pattern for secure floor or console mounting.

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Hydraulic Plumbing is Essential

When installing this turning brake, remember that it must be plumbed in-line between your main master cylinder and the rear brakes. The line coming from the master cylinder (for the rear circuit) enters the "inlet" of the turning brake, and the "outlets" go to the left and right rear wheels respectively. Never attempt to "T" the lines before the turning brake, as this will prevent the unit from isolating the pressure. Always use high-quality double-flared steel lines or braided stainless steel hoses to ensure there is no expansion under the high pressures generated during a hard turn. Double-check all fittings for leaks after the initial bleed, as even a tiny air bubble can significantly degrade the "locking" power of the lever.

2. Master the "Feathering" Technique

A turning brake isn''t just an "on or off" switch. To get the most out of your EMPI angled handle brake, practice feathering the lever in loose terrain. In deep sand, slamming the brake shut can cause the vehicle to dig in and lose momentum. Instead, apply firm but progressive pressure to the inside wheel while maintaining steady throttle. This allows the outside wheel to "push" the front end around the corner without burying the rear end. The angled handle on this specific model is designed for this exact purpose, allowing you to keep your elbow tucked and your wrist at a natural angle for more precise pressure modulation during high-speed technical sections.

3. Mounting Stability and Leverage

The amount of force you apply to a single-handle turning brake is significant, especially when you are trying to lock up large off-road tires. It is imperative that you mount the base to a reinforced section of the floor pan or a dedicated bracket on your chassis. If you are mounting to a stock VW floor pan, we highly recommend using a reinforcement plate on the underside to prevent the sheet metal from flexing or cracking over time. A rock-solid mounting point ensures that every ounce of pull you give the chrome handle is converted into hydraulic pressure rather than wasted in mechanical flex. Additionally, ensure the angled handle doesn''t interfere with your shift throw in any gear before finalizing the mounting position.