Axle Bearing Cap and Seal Kit, Long Axle 67-68

OVERVIEW

When it comes to maintaining the drivetrain of your vintage air-cooled Volkswagen, the rear axle assembly is often a source of frustration for many enthusiasts. The 1967 and 1968 model years represent a unique transitional period in VW history, specifically regarding the move to the long axle swing axle configuration. Over decades of service, original axle bearing caps often become pitted, warped, or severely rusted, making it nearly impossible to achieve a leak-free seal even with brand new gaskets. This EMPI Axle Bearing Cap and Seal Kit is engineered to solve these common issues by providing high-quality, heavy-duty replacements that restore the structural integrity of your rear bearing housing. By replacing these critical components, you are not only stopping unsightly oil puddles on your garage floor but also protecting your rear brake shoes from gear oil contamination, which can lead to dangerous brake fade and catastrophic failure.

This comprehensive kit from EMPI is designed specifically for the "one-year-only" nuances and the specific offsets found in the 1967 and 1968 long axle setups. It features two heavy-duty axle bearing caps that are precision-machined to ensure a perfectly flat mating surface against the bearing housing, alongside two OEM-style axle seals that utilize modern rubber compounds for superior longevity and heat resistance. Whether you are performing a full body-off restoration or simply trying to keep your daily driver roadworthy, using fresh, un-distorted caps is the only way to guarantee a professional-grade seal. Don''t waste time scouring swap meets for used, pitted parts when you can install this heavy-duty kit and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a dry, reliable transaxle. This kit includes everything needed to service both the left and right sides of your vehicle, ensuring a uniform and dependable repair across the entire rear end.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1967 - 1968 (Swing Axle Only)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1967 - 1968 (Swing Axle Only)
• Note: Specifically designed for "Long Axle" swing axle configurations.
• Compatibility: Not for use on IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) models.

SPECS

• Part Number: 16-2251-0
• Kit Type: Axle Bearing Cap and Seal Kit
• Quantity: One kit required per vehicle (Includes 2 caps and 2 seals)
• Material: Heavy-duty cast and machined steel caps
• Seal Construction: High-grade nitrile rubber with internal tension springs
• Axle Configuration: Swing Axle (Long Axle style)
• Finish: Natural machined/industrial finish
• Weight: Approximately 1.65 lbs

PRO TIPS

1. Inspect the Axle Spacer and Bearing Surface

Before installing your new EMPI seals and caps, it is absolutely vital to inspect the steel spacer (often called the bearing sleeve) that the seal rides on. If this spacer has a visible groove worn into it by the previous seal, the new seal will likely fail prematurely or leak immediately. If you feel a "catch" with your fingernail on that spacer, it is time to replace it. Furthermore, ensure the bearing itself is seated fully in the housing; if the bearing is slightly proud or crooked, the cap will not sit flat, and no amount of torque will prevent a gear oil leak. Always clean the housing bore with a lint-free cloth and brake cleaner to ensure no grit interferes with the new seal''s seating.

2. Use a Thin Layer of Sealant and Proper Gaskets

While the kit provides the caps and seals, you must ensure you have the correct paper gaskets and O-rings for the 1967-1968 assembly. When installing the paper gaskets, many master VW technicians recommend applying an extremely thin, almost transparent layer of high-quality non-hardening sealant (like Permatex Aviation Form-A-Gasket) to both sides of the paper. This helps fill in any micro-imperfections in the cast housing. Be careful not to use excessive RTV silicone, as it can squeeze out and clog the oil return holes in the bearing housing, which is a leading cause of oil being forced past the seal and into the brake drum area.

3. Torque in a Star Pattern and Re-Check

The axle bearing cap bolts require a specific torque setting (usually around 14 to 18 ft-lbs, though you should always verify with your specific service manual). Because these caps are the primary clamping force for the entire bearing assembly, uneven tightening can cause the cap to warp or the gasket to pinch. Always tighten the four bolts in a cross or star pattern in three incremental steps. After your first test drive, once the transaxle has reached operating temperature and cooled down again, it is a smart practice to put a wrench back on the bolts to ensure they haven''t loosened as the new gaskets have compressed. This extra step ensures a long-term, leak-free solution for your vintage Volkswagen.