Complete Brake Kit, Super Beetle, 71-79

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the safety and reliability of your classic air-cooled Volkswagen, nothing is more critical than a robust, leak-free braking system. Over decades of service, original factory steel brake lines are prone to internal corrosion from moisture trapped in the brake fluid and external pitting from road debris, moisture, and salt. This EMPI Complete Brake Kit for the Super Beetle is engineered to replace every hard line in your chassis, ensuring that hydraulic pressure is transmitted efficiently from the master cylinder to each wheel cylinder or caliper without the risk of expansion or failure. Whether you are performing a full body-off restoration or simply conducting essential safety maintenance on your daily driver, replacing the entire hard line set at once provides a level of peace of mind that cannot be matched by patchwork repairs. These lines are specifically tailored for the unique front suspension geometry and chassis layout of the 1302 and 1303 Super Beetle models, which differ significantly from the standard Beetle.

Crafted by EMPI, a legendary name in the VW aftermarket industry, this 11-piece kit takes the guesswork out of sourcing individual line lengths and flare types. Each piece in this kit is manufactured from high-grade steel and features the correct metric 10mm bubble flares required for a factory-perfect seal against your master cylinder, brass T-fittings, and flexible rubber or stainless steel hoses. While these lines come pre-cut to the appropriate lengths for the 1971-1979 Super Beetle, they are shipped in a straight or semi-coiled configuration to prevent damage during transit. This allows the installer to custom-contour the lines to the specific curves of the chassis and strut towers, ensuring a professional, tucked-away appearance that mirrors the original German engineering. Investing in this comprehensive kit ensures that you won''t be sidelined by a burst line during a panic stop, keeping your vintage VW safe and operational for the next generation of enthusiasts.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Super Beetle Sedan (1302): 1971 - 1972
• Volkswagen Super Beetle Sedan (1303): 1973 - 1975
• Volkswagen Super Beetle Convertible: 1971 - 1979
• Note: Specifically designed for Super Beetle chassis with MacPherson strut front suspension.

SPECS

• Part Number: 133-698-723
• Material: Zinc-plated Steel for corrosion resistance
• Total Piece Count: 11 Pieces
• Fitting Thread Size: M10 x 1.0 Metric
• Flare Type: Metric Bubble Flare (ISO/DIN)
• Compatibility: Drum or Disc Brake conversions using 10mm fittings
• Finish: Natural Steel / Zinc
• Weight: 1.3 lbs

PRO TIPS

1. Use a Dedicated Tubing Bender for Precision

While the steel used in this EMPI kit is pliable, you should never attempt to make sharp 90-degree bends by hand. Hand-bending often leads to "kinking," which restricts the flow of brake fluid and creates a structural weak point in the line. Always use a high-quality handheld tubing bender to achieve smooth, radius bends that follow the contour of the chassis. This is especially important around the front strut towers and the master cylinder area where space is tight. If you accidentally kink a line, do not try to straighten it out; replace that specific section to ensure the integrity of your hydraulic system remains uncompromised.

2. Replace Your Flex Hoses and T-Fittings Simultaneously

Installing brand-new steel hard lines while leaving 40-year-old rubber flex hoses in place is a recipe for future headaches. Old rubber hoses swell internally, acting like a one-way valve that can cause brakes to drag or pull to one side. Since you will already have the system opened and drained of fluid, this is the perfect time to install new rubber or braided stainless steel flex lines and inspect your brass T-fittings for stripped threads. Starting with a completely fresh hydraulic circuit from the master cylinder to the wheels ensures a firm pedal feel and consistent stopping power across all four corners of the vehicle.

3. Master the Proper Bleeding Sequence

Once your new 11-piece kit is installed, the system will be full of air. To effectively bleed a Super Beetle, always start at the wheel furthest from the master cylinder and work your way closer. The standard order is Passenger Rear (Right Rear), Driver Rear (Left Rear), Passenger Front (Right Front), and finally Driver Front (Left Front). Because the Super Beetle uses a dual-circuit master cylinder, ensure you keep the reservoir topped off at all times during the process; if the fluid level drops too low, you will suck air back into the system and have to start over. Using a power bleeder can significantly speed up this process and help ensure all air bubbles are purged from the new lines.