Steering Shaft Mount, 7/8 Shaft, Weld On Style

OVERVIEW

When you''re tearing through the dunes or navigating technical trails in a custom air-cooled rig, steering precision isn''t just a luxuryit''s a safety requirement. The EMPI Weld-On Steering Shaft Mount is engineered specifically for the rugged demands of off-road Volkswagen applications, providing a rock-solid anchor point for your steering column. Designed to be welded directly onto a 1-1/2 inch windshield bar or roll cage member, this mount eliminates the flex and vibration often found in inferior bolt-on setups. The heavy-duty steel construction ensures that your steering geometry remains consistent even under extreme stress, while the integrated brass bushing provides a smooth, low-friction surface for your 7/8 inch steering shaft to rotate within. At Appletree Auto, we know that a buggy is only as good as its fabrication, and this EMPI component delivers the professional-grade foundation needed for a high-performance cockpit.

This isn''t just a simple piece of stamped metal; it is a precision-fabricated component designed for builders who demand longevity and reliability. The mount is specifically contoured to sit perfectly on standard 1.5-inch tubing, making the welding process straightforward for any experienced fabricator or DIY enthusiast with a steady hand. By utilizing a high-quality brass bushing rather than a standard steel-on-steel contact point, EMPI has ensured that your steering remains fluid and responsive without the "notchy" feel that develops when moisture and grit enter the assembly. Whether you are building a ground-up sand rail, converting a Beetle into a full-blown Baja Bug, or refreshing the interior of a classic Manx-style buggy, this weld-on mount provides the structural integrity required to handle high-torque steering maneuvers and the constant vibration of off-road racing. It''s an essential piece of the puzzle for any steering system overhaul where "good enough" simply won''t cut it.

FITMENT

This steering shaft mount is a universal weld-on component designed for custom VW-based off-road vehicles. While it requires fabrication for installation, it is most commonly used in the following applications:

• VW Dune Buggies: All years and models including Manx, Meyers, and fiberglass tub styles with a roll cage or windshield bar.
• Sand Rails: Custom tube chassis frames utilizing 1-1/2 inch OD tubing for the dash or windshield support.
• Baja Bugs: Custom interior builds where the stock steering column has been replaced with a 7/8 inch aftermarket shaft.
• Woods Buggies: Heavy-duty off-road frames requiring a reinforced steering column support.
• Custom Tube Chassis: Any application utilizing 1.5-inch diameter structural tubing and a 7/8-inch steering shaft.

SPECS

Detailed technical specifications for the EMPI AC425017-7 Steering Shaft Mount:

• Shaft Compatibility: Designed for 7/8 inch (0.875") Outside Diameter steering shafts.
• Mounting Surface: Contoured to fit 1-1/2 inch (1.50") Outside Diameter tubing.
• Material: Heavy-duty cold-rolled steel housing for maximum weldability and strength.
• Bushing Material: High-quality replaceable brass bushing for reduced friction and wear resistance.
• Overall Length: 5.144 inches.
• Overall Width: 4.5 inches.
• Overall Height: 2 inches.
• Installation Style: Weld-on (requires welding equipment and fabrication skills).
• Finish: Raw steel (requires paint or plating after welding to prevent corrosion).

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Alignment Before Final Welding

Before you lay down your final beads, it is critical to mock up the entire steering system. Slide your 7/8 inch steering shaft through the mount and connect it to your steering box or rack and pinion. Tack weld the mount in place first and rotate the steering wheel through its full range of motion. This ensures there is no binding or interference. If the shaft isn''t perfectly centered or angled correctly, the brass bushing will wear prematurely and create "heavy" steering. Don''t rush this step; a few extra minutes of alignment during the mock-up phase will save you hours of frustration later.

2. Heat Management and Bushing Protection

Since this is a weld-on component, heat management is vital. We highly recommend removing the brass bushing from the steel housing before you begin welding to prevent heat distortion or damage to the bushing''s tolerances. If the bushing is pressed in tightly and cannot be easily removed, use a "wet rag" heat sink method or weld in small increments, allowing the metal to cool between passes. Excessive heat can warp the housing, making it difficult to re-insert the bushing or causing the steering shaft to bind once the metal shrinks during the cooling process.

3. Maintenance and Lubrication

While brass is naturally self-lubricating to a degree, off-road environments are notoriously harsh on moving parts. To ensure the longest lifespan for your steering mount, apply a small amount of high-quality synthetic grease or dry film lubricant to the inner diameter of the brass bushing during assembly. This creates a barrier against fine sand and silt that can act as an abrasive. During your post-ride inspections, check the mount for any signs of play or "slop." If the steering starts to feel loose, the brass bushing can usually be replaced without having to cut the entire mount off the chassis, keeping your rig on the trail longer.