Gas Pedal Repair Kit, Fits Beetle 67-79 Master Kit

OVERVIEW

If you have ever experienced that frustrating "crunchy" feeling or a sticky resistance when pressing down on your accelerator, you know exactly how much it detracts from the joy of driving an air-cooled classic. The stock Volkswagen gas pedal assembly relies on a simple plastic roller and a metal hinge that, over decades of use, inevitably succumb to dirt, grit, and mechanical wear. This EMPI Master Gas Pedal Repair Kit is engineered to eliminate those friction points entirely. By replacing your worn-out factory components with this precision-manufactured kit, you are not just performing a simple repair; you are performing a significant mechanical upgrade. The centerpiece of this kit is the redesigned accelerator pedal roller, which features an integrated, sealed long-life ball bearing. This eliminates the metal-on-plastic friction found in original designs, providing a butter-smooth throttle response that makes your Beetle feel decades younger and much more responsive during gear shifts and heel-toe downshifting.

Beyond the immediate improvement in pedal feel, this Master Kit is a vital safety and reliability upgrade for any 1967 through 1979 Type 1. A binding gas pedal doesn''t just feel badit puts unnecessary lateral stress on your throttle cable, which is the leading cause of cable fraying and eventual snapping inside the chassis tunnel. By ensuring the pedal moves through its arc with zero resistance, you extend the life of your throttle cable and ensure that your carburetor or fuel injection system returns to idle consistently every time you lift your foot. This kit includes the upgraded pedal, the high-performance sealed bearing roller, the return spring, and all necessary hardware to overhaul the assembly. It is an EMPI exclusive design that solves the age-old problem of "notchy" acceleration, making it an essential purchase for daily drivers, weekend cruisers, and show-quality restorations alike.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977.
• Volkswagen Type 1 Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979.
• Volkswagen Type 1 Convertible: 1967 through 1979.

SPECS

• Part Number: 98-1093-0.
• Roller Type: Upgraded heavy-duty roller with internal sealed ball bearing.
• Pedal Material: High-strength stamped steel with OE-style grip pattern.
• Finish: Durable black E-coat on the pedal for corrosion resistance.
• Hardware Included: Pedal, sealed bearing roller, pivot pin, return spring, and retaining clips.
• Design: EMPI Exclusive "Master Kit" configuration.
• Application: LHD (Left Hand Drive) models.

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Prepare for the Hinge Plate Modification

While this kit is designed to fit the 1967-1979 floor pan, EMPI notes that a minor modification to the pedal hinge plate is often required. Because original VW hinge plates can become slightly distorted or rusted over 50 years, you may need to use a small round file or a Dremel tool to lightly clean out the hinge pin holes. Ensure the hinge plate is perfectly straight before installing the new pin; if the plate is bent, even the best bearing-supported pedal will bind. Taking five minutes to wire-brush the floor-mounted hinge bracket and apply a thin coat of rust inhibitor will ensure this kit lasts for the life of the vehicle.

Tip 2: Sync Your Throttle Cable Inspection

Since you will have the pedal assembly apart, this is the absolute best time to inspect your throttle cable. Pull the cable slightly out from the tunnel and look for any "fish-hooking" or frayed strands near the pedal connection. If the cable shows any signs of wear, replace it now. Additionally, we recommend blowing a bit of compressed air through the throttle cable guide tube and applying a light lubricant (like dry graphite or a thin lithium grease) to the cable. This, combined with the new sealed bearing roller, will result in the lightest and smoothest throttle pull you have ever felt in a Volkswagen.

Tip 3: Check Your Return Spring Tension

The Master Kit includes a new return spring, which is vital for safety. When installing the spring, ensure that it is seated correctly and provides enough tension to pull the pedal back to the stop without assistance. However, don''t rely solely on the pedal spring to close your throttle. Always verify that your carburetor''s return spring is also in good condition. The goal is a "balanced" system where the pedal feels light to the touch but snaps back instantly when released. If the pedal feels too heavy after installation, check that the carpet or floor mats aren''t interfering with the side of the pedal or the roller path.