Bumper Grommet, Beetle 68-73, Sold as a Each

OVERVIEW

When you are performing a frame-off restoration or simply refreshing the exterior of your classic Volkswagen, the details are what truly separate a professional build from a weekend project. This EMPI bumper grommet is a critical component designed to seal the gap where the bumper bracket passes through the body of your 1968 to 1973 Beetle. Over decades of exposure to UV rays and road salt, original rubber seals become brittle, crack, and eventually crumble away, leaving your paint vulnerable to chipping and your inner body cavities exposed to moisture. By installing these high-quality replacement grommets, you ensure a tight, weather-resistant seal that prevents road debris, mud, and water from entering the fender wells and causing premature rust in those notorious VW rot spots around the heater channels and rear aprons.

Beyond the functional benefits of moisture protection, these grommets provide the clean, finished aesthetic that every air-cooled enthusiast craves. The smooth black rubber transition between the bumper bracket and the bodywork hides the raw edges of the sheet metal, giving your Beetle that factory-fresh appearance. Whether you are running stock chrome bumpers or custom T-bars, these grommets act as a cushion that minimizes vibration and protects your expensive paint job from the slight movements of the bumper assembly during normal driving. Don''t let a small, inexpensive piece of rubber be the weak link in your VW''s exterior; upgrading to these fresh seals is one of the most cost-effective ways to preserve the longevity and value of your vintage Volkswagen. Please note that while some listings vary, these are typically required for both the front and rear of the vehicle depending on your specific year and model configuration.

FITMENT

This bumper grommet is designed for the following Volkswagen models:

• Volkswagen Beetle (Standard): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973 (Front and Rear).
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973 (Rear Only).
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1972, 1973, 1974.

SPECS

• Material: High-density weather-resistant EPDM rubber compound.
• Color: Classic Matte Black finish to match OEM specifications.
• Part Number Reference: 111-707-197B.
• Resistance: Enhanced UV and ozone resistance to prevent premature cracking.
• Quantity: Sold individually (Order 4 for a complete Beetle front/rear refresh).
• Application: Seals the interface between the bumper bracket and the vehicle body sheet metal.

PRO TIPS

1. Use Lubrication for a Tear-Free Install

Attempting to slide a dry rubber grommet over a metal bumper bracket is a recipe for frustration and potential tearing. To make the process seamless, apply a small amount of liquid dish soap or a water-based silicone lubricant to the inner diameter of the grommet and the bracket itself. This allows the rubber to slide into position without over-stretching the material. Avoid using petroleum-based greases, as these can break down the rubber over time and lead to premature failure of the seal.

2. Inspect and Prep Your Brackets

Before you slide your new grommets onto the brackets, take a moment to inspect the metal surfaces for any burrs, rust scales, or sharp edges. Vintage bumper brackets often have rough welds or oxidation that can slice through new rubber like a razor. Use a fine-grit sandpaper or a metal file to smooth out any imperfections. Once the bracket is smooth, a quick coat of rust-inhibitive paint will not only help the grommet seat better but will also prevent corrosion from starting underneath the new seal where moisture can sometimes be trapped.

3. Verify the Orientation and Seating

When installing, ensure that the outer lip of the grommet is fully seated against the bodywork and that the inner "neck" is properly wrapped around the bracket. If the grommet is twisted or pinched, it won''t provide a water-tight seal and may eventually pop out of the body hole. After the bumper is fully tightened, give the grommet a final inspection. If it looks deformed, loosen the bumper bolts slightly, reposition the rubber using a plastic trim tool (never a metal screwdriver, which can scratch your paint), and then re-torque your hardware to factory specifications.