Door Contact Switch Seal, for Beetle 61-77 Ghia 56-74, Each

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the electrical integrity and interior comfort of your vintage Volkswagen, it is often the smallest components that make the biggest difference. The EMPI Door Contact Switch Seal is a critical restoration piece designed to protect your dome light switch from the elements while ensuring a clean, factory-finished look. Over decades of service, original rubber seals become brittle, cracked, or simply disintegrate, allowing moisture to seep into the door pillar. This moisture leads to corrosion of the switch terminals, resulting in flickering interior lights or a complete failure of the circuit. By replacing your worn-out seals with these high-quality reproductions, you are not just fixing a cosmetic issue; you are safeguarding your VW''s electrical system against "phantom" shorts and grounding problems that plague many air-cooled classics.

Crafted to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, this seal (OEM part number 113-947-565A) provides the perfect tension and fitment required to keep the door switch plunger protected during every open and close cycle. Whether you are performing a concourse-level restoration on a 1956 Karmann Ghia or simply maintaining your daily-driver 1974 Super Beetle, these seals are essential for a professional result. At Appletree Automotive, we understand that details matter, which is why we offer these EMPI seals to provide the durability and weather resistance your Volkswagen deserves. Don''t let a dry-rotted seal be the reason your battery drains or your dome light fails to illuminate when you step into your car at night; upgrade to a fresh set of seals and experience the peace of mind that comes with a properly sealed cabin.

FITMENT

This door contact switch seal is designed for a wide range of air-cooled Volkswagen models. Please review the specific year ranges below to ensure compatibility with your vehicle:

• Volkswagen Beetle (Standard): 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Noted for similar switch styles): Please verify clearance before installation.

SPECS

The technical specifications of this component ensure a long-lasting seal and easy installation. Here are the detailed product specs:

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 98-2035-0
• OEM Reference: 113-947-565A (113947565A)
• Material: High-density, weather-resistant EPDM rubber compound.
• Finish: Factory-style matte black.
• Quantity: Sold individually (Each). Note: Most vehicles require two for a complete set (one per door).
• Weight: 0.18 lbs.
• Application: Seals the interface between the door contact switch and the body pillar.

PRO TIPS

1. Prep the Pillar Surface for Longevity

Before installing your new EMPI seal, take a moment to thoroughly clean the door pillar area where the switch mounts. Use a mild degreaser or rubbing alcohol to remove old rubber residue, wax, or road grime. If you notice any surface rust around the mounting hole, lightly sand it and apply a small dab of touch-up paint or a rust inhibitor. A clean, smooth surface ensures that the new rubber seal creates a watertight vacuum, preventing moisture from migrating behind the pillar and causing hidden rust issues in the future.

2. Protect Your Electrical Connections

While you have the door contact switch pulled out to replace the seal, it is the perfect time to inspect your wiring. These switches work by grounding the circuit when the door opens. Ensure the spade connector is tight and free of oxidation. We highly recommend applying a small amount of dielectric grease to the electrical terminal before sliding the switch back into the pillar. This grease prevents moisture from corroding the metal contact points, ensuring your dome light turns on reliably every single time the door is opened.

3. Proper Seating and Orientation

When installing the seal, make sure the lip of the rubber is fully seated around the perimeter of the switch body. It should sit flush against the body of the car without any gaps. If the seal is twisted or pinched during installation, it can cause the switch plunger to bind, which may keep your dome light on even when the door is closed, leading to a dead battery. A light dusting of talcum powder or a tiny drop of rubber-safe lubricant on the seal can help it slide into place without binding against the metal pillar during the final tightening of the mounting screw.