Trailing Arm Kit, 3X3 Arms, Type 2 Bus CV Joints for Type 1

OVERVIEW

Transform your off-road performance and stance with the Appletree Automotive 3x3 Trailing Arm Kit. Specifically engineered for the enthusiast who demands more suspension travel, stability, and strength, this kit is the ultimate solution for converting a standard Type 1 IRS rear end into a wide-track powerhouse. By moving the wheel center 3 inches rearward and 3 inches outward, you effectively increase the wheelbase and track width of your vehicle. This geometry shift drastically improves high-speed stability through the whoops and provides the necessary clearance to run larger off-road tires without rubbing against the inner wheel wells or the chassis. Built with heavy-duty DOM (Drawn Over Mandrel) steel tubing, these arms are designed to withstand the punishing environments of the desert, dunes, and rugged trails where stock components simply fail.

What sets this kit apart is the integration of high-strength Type 2 Bus components into a Type 1 Beetle transmission setup. While the stock Type 1 CV joints are limited in their operating angles, the 100mm Type 2 CV joints included in this kit allow for much greater suspension articulation without binding. We have curated every necessary component to bridge this gap, including custom chromoly 28-spline axles and conversion stub axles that marry the beefier Bus drivetrain to your Beetle-style chassis. From the precision-machined chromoly drive flanges to the comprehensive seal and bearing kits, this package eliminates the guesswork and compatibility headaches usually associated with long-travel suspension builds. When you are pushing your buggy or Baja to the limit, you need the peace of mind that comes from Appletree''s professional-grade drivetrain engineering.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle (IRS Models): 1969 through 1977
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia (IRS Models): 1969 through 1974
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): All years with IRS conversion or stock IRS
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Any tube chassis or pan-based buggy utilizing Type 1 IRS pivot points
• Baja Bugs: Ideal for Type 1 Beetle conversions looking for maximum rear travel

SPECS

• Trailing Arm Dimensions: 3 Inches Extended (Back) x 3 Inches Wider (Out)
• Material Construction: High-strength DOM Steel Tubing
• Axle Type: 20-1/4 Inch Chromoly, 28-Spline Performance Axles
• CV Joint Size: 100mm (Type 2 Bus Style) for increased angularity
• Stub Axles: T1 to T2 Conversion Chromoly Stub Axles
• Drive Flanges: T1 to T2 Conversion Flanges (For Type 1 Transmission)
• Hardware: 24 High-tensile CV Bolts included
• Bearings: Complete set of 2 Inner and 2 Outer Bearings
• Bushings: 1 Pair of Heavy-duty IRS Pivot Bushings
• Seal Kits: 2 Rear Axle Seal Kits with Gaskets and O-rings
• Additional Components: Axle housing end caps, IRS axle spacers, and washers

PRO TIPS

1. Prioritize Precision CV Lubrication and Boot Seating

When assembling your Type 2 CV joints, it is absolutely critical to use a high-quality, high-moly content grease specifically designed for high-angle off-road use. Do not simply "skim" the surface; work the grease deep into the cage and around every ball bearing until the joint is fully packed. Additionally, when installing the CV boots, ensure that the boot is not "ballooned" or "vacuumed" when the suspension is at mid-travel. Trapped air can cause the boot to expand and rub against the arm or exhaust, leading to premature failure. Use a small screwdriver to gently vent the boot before tightening the final clamp to ensure it maintains a neutral shape throughout its range of motion.

2. Always Install Limit Straps to Protect Your Drivetrain

While the 3x3 arms and Type 2 CV joints allow for significantly more travel than stock, they still have a finite mechanical limit. To prevent the CV joints from over-extending and "locking up" at full droop, you must install high-quality limit straps. We recommend setting your limit straps so that they stop the suspension travel approximately 1 to 2 degrees before the CV joints reach their maximum angularity. This small margin of safety prevents the internal components of the CV from binding and shattering under power, which is the most common cause of axle failure during jumps or hard acceleration over uneven terrain.

3. Verify Torsion Housing Clearance and Pivot Alignment

Before final torque-down, mock up the trailing arms in the pivot brackets to check for any interference with the torsion housing or the body of the vehicle. Because 3x3 arms significantly change the geometry, you may find that minor trimming or "massaging" of the fender wells or the torsion housing ends is required for a rub-free experience. Also, ensure your pivot bolts are lubricated with an anti-seize compound. When tightening the pivot bolts, it is a "best practice" to do so with the vehicle at ride height rather than full droop; this prevents the pivot bushings from being pre-loaded in a twisted position, which significantly extends the life of the bushing and provides a smoother suspension feel.