EMPI Dish Wheel, 5.5 Wide, Fits 5 On 112mm VW

OVERVIEW

Elevate the aesthetic of your late-model Volkswagen with the legendary styling of the EMPI Dish Wheel. This 15-inch by 5.5-inch wheel is a masterclass in vintage-inspired design, offering a clean, "smoothie" style appearance that perfectly complements the boxy lines of the Type 2 Bus and the rugged profile of the Vanagon. Unlike standard steel wheels, the EMPI Dish wheel provides a deep, reflective surface that catches the light and draws attention to your ride''s stance. Whether you are restoring a pristine Westfalia camper or building a custom street-slammed Bay Window, these wheels deliver a timeless look that bridges the gap between classic VW heritage and modern manufacturing precision. The 5.5-inch width is widely considered the "gold standard" for air-cooled and water-cooled Transporters, providing enough surface area for a meaty tire footprint while maintaining easy steering geometry and clearance within the wheel wells.

Engineering excellence is at the heart of this EMPI classic. Designed specifically for the 5 on 112mm bolt pattern, this wheel is a direct-fit solution for the later generations of the Volkswagen Transporter family. The 4-inch backspacing is meticulously calculated to ensure proper offset, allowing for a wider variety of tire sizes without the constant fear of rubbing against inner fender wells or suspension components. Each wheel comes complete with a signature EMPI center cap and a high-quality valve stem, ensuring you have the essential components ready for mounting. At Appletree Auto, we know that the right set of shoes can make or break a build, and the EMPI Dish Wheel remains one of the most reliable and visually striking choices for enthusiasts who demand both performance and period-correct style for their late-model VW projects.

FITMENT

This wheel is designed specifically for Volkswagen models utilizing the 5x112mm lug pattern. Please verify your vehicle''s hub configuration before ordering.

• VW Type 2 Bus (Bay Window): 1971 through 1979
• VW Vanagon (T3/Transporter): 1980 through 1991 (All models including Westfalia and Syncro)
• Custom Applications: Any VW-based kit car or rail using late-model 5x112mm hubs or brake conversions.

SPECS

Detailed technical specifications for the EMPI Dish Wheel (Part # 00-9749-0):

• Diameter: 15 Inches
• Width: 5.5 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 5 On 112mm
• Backspacing: 4 Inches
• Lug Seat: Special 14mm (Requires specific EMPI hardware)
• Material: High-grade Aluminum Alloy
• Center Cap: Included (Replacement Part # 00-9720)
• Valve Stem: Included
• Weight: Approximately 16.9 lbs per wheel
• Recommended Lug Hardware: Part # 00-9547-0 and 00-9517-0

PRO TIPS

1. Always Use the Correct Lug Hardware

One of the most common mistakes we see at Appletree Auto is owners attempting to reuse their factory original equipment (OE) lug bolts or nuts on aftermarket EMPI wheels. The EMPI Dish Wheel features a specific 14mm lug seat that is designed to work with specialized hardware. Using stock bolts can lead to improper seating, which not only risks damaging the aluminum mounting surface of your new wheels but can also lead to the lugs loosening over time. To ensure a safe and vibration-free ride, always purchase the recommended 00-9547-0 and 00-9517-0 hardware kits. Don''t forget to re-torque your lugs after the first 50 to 100 miles of driving to account for the initial settling of the aluminum.

2. Verify Clearance on Lowered Suspensions

While the 4-inch backspacing on these 5.5-inch wide wheels is designed to fit most stock applications perfectly, things change once you start adjusting your ride height. If you have installed a narrowed beam, dropped spindles, or lowering springs on your Vanagon or Bay Window, you must check for "full lock" clearance. Turn your steering wheel all the way to the left and right to ensure the tire sidewall does not contact the inner wheel arch or the suspension linkage. Additionally, if you are running a heavy camper setup, consider your tire aspect ratio carefully to prevent the tire from "bottoming out" against the fender lip during deep suspension compression on rough roads.

3. Maintain the Mirror Finish

The EMPI Dish Wheel is known for its brilliant, eye-catching finish, but keeping it that way requires a bit of proactive maintenance. Because these wheels are exposed to road salt, brake dust, and environmental moisture, we highly recommend applying a high-quality wheel sealant or ceramic coating before you even mount them. This creates a protective barrier that makes cleaning significantly easier. When washing, avoid using harsh acid-based wheel cleaners which can dull or stain the finish. Stick to pH-neutral soaps and a soft microfiber wash mitt. If you live in a coastal area or a region where roads are salted in the winter, regular rinsing is essential to prevent oxidation and keep that "show-room" shine for years to come.