IRS Outer Wheel Bearing, Fits Beetle & Ghia 69-79

OVERVIEW

When Volkswagen transitioned to the Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) design in 1969, it significantly improved the handling, safety, and ride quality of the Beetle, Karmann Ghia, and Type 3. However, this more advanced engineering also introduced specific maintenance requirements within the rear trailing arm assembly. This EMPI IRS Outer Wheel Bearing is a premium-grade replacement designed to restore the smooth, silent operation of your classic VW''s drivetrain. Situated on the outboard side of the trailing arm, this bearing supports the stub axle and manages the lateral loads generated during cornering. Over time, the original factory bearings are prone to grease contamination, moisture intrusion, and metal fatigue, which eventually leads to the characteristic "growling" or "grinding" noise that signals imminent failure. By installing this high-precision bearing, you ensure that your vehicle''s rear geometry remains stable and your wheel rotation stays friction-free.

At Appletree Automotive, we understand that a VW''s suspension is only as strong as its weakest link. That is why we recommend this heavy-duty outer wheel bearing for everything from concours-level restorations to rugged off-road dune buggies and woods buggies. These bearings take a massive beating, especially in high-performance or off-road applications where the IRS trailing arms are pushed to their limits. It is a best practice to replace these bearings whenever you are servicing your stub axles, replacing worn-out CV joints, or upgrading your rear brakes. Crafted from high-carbon steel and machined to exacting tolerances, this bearing offers the durability required to handle modern road speeds and the increased torque of performance engines. Don''t risk a seized axle or a breakdown on the trail; invest in the reliability of a fresh outer bearing to keep your Volkswagen moving forward with confidence.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle (Type 1): 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979 (Includes Super Beetle models)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973
• Custom Applications: Fits all Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Woods Buggies utilizing 1969-79 VW IRS Trailing Arms.

SPECS

• Part Number: 113-501-277AEC (Equivalent to OEM 113-501-277A)
• Inner Diameter: 1.182 Inches (30mm)
• Outer Diameter: 2.440 Inches (62mm)
• Thickness: 0.630 Inches (16