Window Crank Cover, for Beetle, Bus & Ghia 68-79, Black, Ea

OVERVIEW

When it comes to completing a high-quality interior restoration on your air-cooled Volkswagen, it is often the smallest components that make the biggest difference. This EMPI Window Crank Cover, also known as a buffer or escutcheon, is an essential trim piece designed to sit directly behind the window crank handle. Its primary function is to provide a protective barrier between the rotating metal handle and your vinyl or cloth door panels. Without this 36mm black washer, the constant friction of rolling the windows up and down will eventually scuff, tear, or wear a permanent circular groove into your expensive door cards. If you are noticing that your handles feel a bit loose or if you see visible wear on the door panel surface, it is likely that these buffers are either missing or have become brittle and cracked after decades of service.

Manufactured to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, this window crank cover features the correct 36mm diameter and a deep black finish that matches factory interior components perfectly. At Appletree Automotive, we understand that "good enough" isn''t in the vocabulary of a true VW enthusiast. That is why we stock these high-grade EMPI replacements that offer the perfect balance of flexibility and durability. Whether you are finishing a concourse-level restoration on a 1968 Karmann Ghia or simply freshening up the daily driver 1974 Super Beetle, these covers provide that crisp, factory-fresh look while ensuring your interior remains protected from mechanical wear. Sold individually, these are a cost-effective way to tighten up the aesthetics of your cabin and ensure smooth operation of your window regulators.

FITMENT

This window crank cover is designed for late-model air-cooled Volkswagens utilizing the 36mm style escutcheon. Please verify your specific year and model below:

• VW Beetle (Standard): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• VW Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• VW Bus (Type 2): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973, 1974

SPECS

• Part Number: 111-837-595A (111837595A)
• Brand: EMPI
• Material: High-density UV-resistant polymer
• Color: Factory Black
• Outside Diameter: 36mm
• Inside Diameter: Sized for standard VW window regulator shafts
• Quantity: Sold Individually (1 Each)
• Application: Interior door trim / window crank spacer

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Inspect the Tension Spring

While you have the window crank handle removed to install your new cover, always take a moment to inspect the tension spring located behind the door panel. If your window crank handle feels "floppy" or doesn''t sit flush against the new cover, that spring is likely collapsed or missing. Replacing that spring in conjunction with this new buffer will ensure the handle remains under constant tension, preventing rattles and providing a much more professional feel to the interior hardware.

Tip 2: Proper Orientation and Seating

When installing these covers, ensure the door panel is properly seated against the regulator shaft. If the door panel is bulging out too faroften caused by thick modern sound deadening material installed behind the cardit can put excessive pressure on this plastic cover, causing it to warp or crack prematurely. Ensure the panel is flat and the cover sits squarely against the handle to provide the smoothest rotation without binding against the vinyl.

Tip 3: Maintenance and Preservation

Because these covers are made of a polymer material, they are susceptible to drying out over time, especially in hot climates or cars that sit in the sun. During your regular interior detailing, apply a small amount of water-based UV protectant to the covers. This keeps the material supple and prevents the "chalky" grey appearance that often plagues older plastic VW interior bits. Avoid using silicone-based sprays directly on the covers, as these can attract dust which acts as an abrasive against your door panel.