Throttle Cable, for Type 2 Bus 55-64, 3564mm

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the driving experience of a vintage Volkswagen Type 2 Bus, nothing is more frustrating than a sticky, unresponsive, or frayed accelerator cable. This EMPI Throttle Cable is specifically engineered to restore that crisp, factory-original pedal feel to your 1955 through 1964 Split Window Bus. As these vehicles age, the original steel cables often succumb to rust, internal binding, or individual strand breakage, which can lead to a dangerous "stuck throttle" situation or, more commonly, a cable that snaps right when you are pulling away from a stoplight. Replacing your old, stretched cable with this high-quality 3564mm unit ensures that every millimeter of pedal travel translates directly to the carburetor linkage, providing the smooth acceleration and reliable return-to-idle that these iconic air-cooled machines deserve.

Crafted to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, this throttle cable is a "must-have" for any serious restoration or routine maintenance schedule. The 3564mm length is precisely measured to navigate the long journey from the pedal assembly at the front of the Bus, through the chassis guide tubes, and back to the engine compartment. Whether you are daily driving a Panel Van or meticulously restoring a 15-window Deluxe, using a dedicated EMPI component means you won''t have to worry about improper fitment or premature wear. At Appletree Automotive, we understand that the reliability of your vintage VW depends on the quality of its smallest parts, and this throttle cable delivers the durability needed for everything from weekend cruises to long-distance vintage camping trips. Don''t wait for your old cable to leave you stranded on the shoulder; upgrade to a fresh, high-tensile steel cable and feel the difference in your right foot immediately.

FITMENT

This throttle cable is designed for the following Volkswagen Type 2 models:

• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus (Split Window): 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, and early 1964.
• Standard Microbus / Kombi: 1955-1964.
• Panel Van: 1955-1964.
• Single Cab & Double Cab Pickups: 1955-1964.
• Deluxe 13-Window & 15-Window Models: 1955-1964.

SPECS

Precision engineering meets vintage requirements with the following technical specifications:

• Total Length: 3564mm (Approximately 140.3 inches).
• OEM Reference Number: 211-721-555A.
• Material: Multi-strand high-tensile galvanized steel for maximum flexibility and strength.
• End Type A (Pedal End): Standard Z-bend hook for easy attachment to the accelerator pedal linkage.
• End Type B (Engine End): Raw straight-cut end designed for use with a standard barrel nut or cable screw at the carburetor.
• Brand: EMPI, the leader in aftermarket air-cooled VW performance and replacement parts.
• Quantity: Sold Each.

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Lubrication is Mandatory

Before sliding your new cable into the chassis guide tube, it is absolutely vital to lubricate the entire length of the steel wire. We highly recommend using a high-quality white lithium grease or a specialized cable lubricant. Simply apply the grease to a rag and pull the cable through it as you feed it into the tube. This not only ensures a buttery-smooth pedal feel but also creates a moisture barrier that prevents the cable from rusting or seizing inside the guide tube over time. A dry cable will eventually "saw" into the metal guide tube or fray prematurely due to friction, so never skip this step during installation.

2. Inspect the Guide Tube and Fan Shroud

While you have the old cable out, take a moment to inspect the metal guide tube that runs through the fan shroud. It is common for this tube to become misaligned or for the tip to wear down, creating a sharp edge that can shred a brand-new cable in a matter of weeks. Ensure the tube is securely seated and that there is a smooth exit path for the cable to reach the carburetor linkage. If you are running an aftermarket linkage or a dual-carburetor setup, verify that the cable pull is straight; any significant side-loading on the cable will lead to rapid failure at the engine-side connection point.

3. Account for Custom Engine and Transaxle Setups

If your 1955-1964 Bus has been modified with a later-model engine, a different transaxle, or is being used in an off-road "Baja" style application, the stock 3564mm length might require slight adjustment. While this cable is the factory length for the Split Window era, custom throttle linkages or carburetors (like dual Webers or Delortos) may require a specific amount of "slack" or a different termination point. If the cable is slightly too long for your specific custom setup, Appletree Automotive offers cable shortening kits (barrel nuts and clamps) that allow you to trim the cable to the exact length needed for perfect wide-open throttle synchronization without having to source a custom-made wire.