Scissor Jack, for Type 2 Bus & Beetles

OVERVIEW

When it comes to maintaining your vintage Volkswagen, having the right tools in your roadside emergency kit or garage is the difference between a quick fix and a total headache. The EMPI Scissor Jack, specifically designed for the Type 2 Bus but fully compatible with Beetles and Ghias, is the ultimate heavy-duty lifting solution for the air-cooled enthusiast. Unlike the flimsy, original equipment side-post jacks that often feel unstable or fail under pressure, this scissor-style jack provides a much broader base and a more secure lifting platform. It was originally engineered to handle the additional weight and height requirements of the Type 2 Transporter, making it an over-engineered, ultra-reliable upgrade for lighter vehicles like the Type 1 Sedan. Whether you are running a stock height Bus or a slammed Cal-look Beetle, this jack provides the clearance and the reach necessary to get your tires off the ground safely and efficiently.

One of the standout features of this EMPI unit is its versatility for lowered vehicles. Many modern hydraulic floor jacks simply cannot slide under a narrowed beam or a dropped spindle setup, but the low-profile collapsed height of this scissor jack allows it to sneak into tight spaces where others fail. Once in position, the smooth-turning threaded rod provides a controlled, linear lift that won''t jerk or slip, giving you the confidence to perform wheel swaps or brake inspections on the fly. Weighing in at over 23 pounds, this isn''t a cheap, lightweight imitation; it is a robust piece of equipment built from high-strength steel to ensure it survives years of use in the shop or tucked away in your trunk. For the VW owner who demands period-correct utility with modern manufacturing standards, this scissor jack is the gold standard for your suspension tool collection.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus: 1950 through 1979 (Split Window and Bay Window models).
• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1946 through 1977 (Standard and Super Beetle).
• Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia: 1955 through 1974.
• Volkswagen Type 3: 1961 through 1973 (Squareback, Fastback, and Notchback).
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974.

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI.
• Part Number: 237-011-031 (Reference 98-0109-B).
• Material: Reinforced heavy-duty steel construction.
• Weight: 23.25 lbs (Heavy-duty grade).
• Lift Style: Mechanical Scissor Jack with threaded drive screw.
• Finish: Durable black protective coating to resist rust and corrosion.
• Compatibility: Designed for original VW jacking points and flat chassis surfaces.
• Application: Ideal for high-roof buses and lowered street cars.

PRO TIPS

1. Lubricate the Threaded Rod Regularly

To ensure the longest possible lifespan for your EMPI Scissor Jack, you should keep the main threaded drive screw well-lubricated. Over time, road grime, dust, and moisture can get trapped in the threads, causing friction that makes the jack harder to turn and leads to premature wear of the metal. We recommend applying a high-quality lithium grease or a heavy-duty anti-seize lubricant to the threads at least once a year. This ensures that when you actually need the jack during a roadside emergency, it operates smoothly and requires minimal physical effort to lift the vehicle.

2. Always Use a Solid Base on Soft Ground

Air-cooled VWs are often driven to campsites, car shows, or off-road events where the ground may be soft or uneven. Because this jack is significantly heavier and more powerful than a standard Beetle jack, it can exert a lot of pressure on a small footprint. If you find yourself needing to lift your Bus or Beetle on grass, dirt, or hot asphalt, always place a thick piece of plywood or a flat "jack pad" under the base of the scissor jack. This distributes the weight across a larger surface area, preventing the jack from sinking or tilting while the vehicle is in the air.

3. Safety First: Never Trust a Jack Alone

While this EMPI Scissor Jack is built to be incredibly robust, it is a lifting tool, not a support tool. You should never, under any circumstances, place any part of your body under a vehicle that is supported only by a jack. Whether you are changing a tire or adjusting your valves, always use high-quality jack stands to secure the vehicle once it has been lifted to the desired height. The scissor jack is perfect for getting the car up, but the jack stands are what keep you safe while you work. Always engage your emergency brake and chock the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle before you begin the lifting process.