Stainless Steel Running Boards, for All Aircooled Beetles

OVERVIEW

Upgrade your Beetle''s profile with the ultimate blend of custom style and lifelong durability. These EMPI Stainless Steel Running Boards are a significant departure from the standard rubber-matted factory units, offering a high-polish, mirror-like finish that won''t succumb to the typical rust and corrosion that plagues stock air-cooled components. The distinctive louvered design adds a performance-inspired, "California Look" aesthetic that immediately sets your Bug apart at any show or local meetup. Crafted for enthusiasts who demand more than just a functional step, these boards provide a rigid, secure platform while dramatically cleaning up the side profile of your Type 1, ensuring your Volkswagen looks as fast as it feels.

Beyond the stunning visual appeal, these running boards are engineered for a precise fit across the entire production run of the Volkswagen Beetle. Because they are constructed from high-quality stainless steel, you won''t have to worry about the paint chipping or the rubber matting peeling away over time, which is a common failure point on traditional steel boards. Each set comes complete with the necessary mounting hardware, making this one of the most impactful bolt-on upgrades you can perform in your own garage. Whether you are restoring a vintage oval window or putting the finishing touches on a late-model Super Beetle, these boards offer the perfect marriage of form and function that Appletree Auto customers have come to expect from premium EMPI hardware.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Standard): All Years (1946-1977)
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: All Years (1971-1979)
• Volkswagen Beetle Convertible: All Years (1950-1979)

SPECS

• Part Number: 00-6820-0
• Material: High-Grade Polished Stainless Steel
• Finish: Mirror Polish
• Design: Custom Louvered Surface for Grip and Style
• Quantity: Sold as a Pair (Left and Right sides)
• Hardware: Complete Mounting Hardware Kit Included
• Corrosion Resistance: Superior Resistance to Rust and Road Salt
• Installation: Direct Bolt-on to Factory Mounting Points

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Perfecting the Alignment

When installing your new stainless boards, it''s a professional secret to loosely thread the mounting bolts into the heater channel first before tightening them down completely. This allows you a few millimeters of play to shift the board forward or backward, ensuring it seats perfectly flush against the curvature of both the front and rear fenders. Once the gap is uniform, torque the bolts down to secure the position. This prevents the "gapping" look that often ruins a high-end restoration.

Tip 2: Maintaining the Mirror Luster

To keep that high-polish stainless finish looking its best, you should avoid using harsh abrasive cleaners or steel wool, which can create micro-scratches and dull the surface over time. Instead, use a dedicated stainless steel polish and a clean microfiber towel once a month. This not only maintains the shine but also creates a protective barrier against road grime and moisture, ensuring your boards look brand new for the life of the vehicle.

Tip 3: Check Your Fender Welting

Don''t overlook the condition of your fender beads (the rubber welting) during the installation process. If your old welting is dry-rotted or compressed, it is the perfect time to replace it. Fresh welting provides a crucial cushion between the stainless steel board and the painted body of your Beetle. This prevents metal-on-metal vibration, which can lead to annoying squeaks and eventually chafe the paint, leading to hidden rust spots on the body panels.