Rear Bumper, Cal Look, for Beetle 53-67

OVERVIEW

Transform the silhouette of your vintage Volkswagen with the EMPI Cal Look Rear Bumper, the definitive choice for enthusiasts seeking that iconic, clean Southern California aesthetic. Originating in the late 1960s, the Cal Look movement was all about stripping away the cluttered "towel bar" overriders and guards found on stock European and American export models to reveal the pure, aerodynamic lines of the Type 1 Beetle. This bumper captures that spirit perfectly, offering a sleek, single-blade design that provides a refined and aggressive stance. Crafted with precision to match the original factory curvature, this bumper isn''t just a replacement part; it''s a statement of style that pays homage to decades of VW drag racing and custom car culture. Whether you''re finishing a ground-up restoration or simply giving your daily driver a facelift, this chrome-plated masterpiece delivers the high-luster shine and vintage profile that Appletree Auto customers demand.

Engineering excellence meets classic styling in this EMPI 98-1018-B rear bumper. Designed specifically for the 1953 through 1967 Beetle, it features the correct four-hole mounting pattern for seamless bracket integration. Unlike generic aftermarket options that often suffer from poor chrome quality or incorrect radius bends, this unit is manufactured to rigorous standards to ensure a perfect fit against the rear apron. The chrome finish is applied over high-quality steel, providing a deep, mirror-like reflection that highlights the classic contours of the pre-68 rear end. By eliminating the bulky overriders, you reduce unnecessary weight and create a "tucked" look that makes your Beetle appear lower and wider. When you choose this Cal Look bumper, you''re investing in a component that balances period-correct authenticity with modern manufacturing durability, ensuring your air-cooled gem looks as good at the local car show as it does cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Sedan): 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967
• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Sunroof): 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967
• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Convertible): 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 98-1018-B
• OEM Cross Reference: 113-707-311A
• Style: Cal Look (Single Blade / Smooth)
• Position: Rear
• Material: Heavy-Duty Stamped Steel
• Finish: High-Luster Triple Chrome Plating
• Mounting Configuration: 4-Hole Bracket Pattern
• Weight: 6.08 lbs
• Compatibility: All 1953-1967 Type 1 Models (Standard/Deluxe)

PRO TIPS

1. Protect Your Paint with New Grommets

When installing your new Cal Look bumper, never reuse old, hardened bumper bracket grommets. Over time, the rubber seals that sit between the bumper brackets and the body of your Beetle become brittle and trap moisture, which can lead to unsightly rust streaks and paint damage. We always recommend installing a fresh set of high-quality rubber seals during the swap. This ensures a snug, vibration-free fit and provides a clean, finished appearance where the brackets exit the rear apron. For a truly professional look, ensure the brackets are centered perfectly within the apron holes before tightening the final bolts to prevent any metal-on-metal contact during engine vibration.

2. Upgrade to Stainless or Chrome Hardware

Nothing ruins the visual impact of a brand-new chrome bumper faster than rusty, mismatched mounting bolts. Since this EMPI bumper features a stunning mirror finish, don''t settle for standard zinc-plated hardware from the local hardware store. We suggest using chrome-capped bumper bolts or high-polish stainless steel hardware. Not only does this provide a uniform "show-quality" look across the entire rear of the vehicle, but it also prevents the "bleeding" of rust onto the chrome surface over time. Apply a small amount of anti-seize lubricant to the threads before installation; this makes future adjustments much easier and protects the threads from the elements.

3. Maintenance is Key to Longevity

To keep that Cal Look shine deep and reflective for years to come, treat your chrome with the same respect as your paint. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or steel wool, which can create micro-scratches that eventually lead to pitting. After washing your car, always hand-dry the bumper to prevent water spots, especially in areas with hard water. A high-quality carnauba wax or a specialized synthetic sealant applied twice a year will create a hydrophobic barrier, protecting the steel underneath from road salt, humidity, and atmospheric contaminants. If you live in a coastal area, this maintenance step is non-negotiable for preventing the salt air from attacking the edges of the chrome plating.