Cv Bolts, Beetle & Bus, 8mm With 12 Point Internal, 6 Pack

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the drivetrain of your air-cooled Volkswagen, there is no room for compromise. These EMPI 8mm CV bolts are engineered to meet the demanding requirements of high-torque applications, ensuring that your power is transferred from the transaxle to the wheels without failure. Standard hardware often falls short under the stress of spirited driving or off-road excursions in a dune buggy or woods buggy. These hardened, aircraft-quality bolts are designed to resist stretching and shearing, providing the peace of mind every VW enthusiast needs when pushing their machine to the limit. Whether you are performing a routine CV joint service or building a fresh IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) setup, starting with high-quality fasteners is the most cost-effective insurance policy you can buy for your Beetle or Bus.

The standout feature of these bolts is the 12-point internal (Triple Square/XZN) head design. Unlike traditional Allen-head bolts that are prone to stripping when caked with grease or subjected to high torque, the 12-point interface provides significantly more surface area for the tool to grab. This ensures a secure fit and allows for precise torque application, which is critical for preventing CV bolts from backing outa common and potentially catastrophic issue in the VW world. Sold in a convenient 6-pack, these bolts are the gold standard for Type 1 CV joints, offering the perfect blend of durability, precision, and ease of installation for the serious mechanic or DIYer looking to maintain their vintage Volkswagen''s reliability.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1968 through 1977 (Sedan and Convertible)
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971 through 1979
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1968 through 1974
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: 1973 through 1974
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus: 1968 through 1979 (Verify 8mm thread size, as some Bus models transitioned to 10mm)
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Baja Bugs utilizing Type 1 IRS trailing arms and CV joints.

SPECS

• Bolt Diameter: 8mm
• Thread Pitch: 1.25mm
• Head Style: 12-Point Internal (Triple Square / XZN)
• Material: Hardened High-Tensile Aircraft Quality Steel
• Quantity: 6 Bolts per pack
• Finish: Corrosion-resistant coating for long-lasting durability
• Application: Specifically designed for Type 1 Constant Velocity (CV) Joints

PRO TIPS

1. Use the Correct Tooling and Clean the Heads

One of the most common mistakes when installing or removing these bolts is using the wrong tool or failing to seat the tool completely. Always use a dedicated 8mm Triple Square (XZN) driver bit. Before attempting to loosen or tighten the bolts, use a small pick or screwdriver to scrape out any old grease or dirt from the 12-point internal head. If the bit is not fully seated at the bottom of the bolt head, you risk rounding off the splines. Once the head is clean, tap the driver bit into the bolt with a hammer to ensure it is locked in before applying torque.

2. The Importance of Proper Torque and the Star Pattern

CV bolts live in a high-vibration environment and must be torqued to the factory specification (usually 25 ft-lbs for 8mm bolts) to prevent them from loosening over time. Always tighten the bolts in a "star" or cross-pattern, similar to how you would tighten lug nuts on a wheel. This ensures that the CV joint and the grease flange are seated perfectly flat against the drive flange. Uneven tightening can lead to grease leaks or, worse, uneven stress on the bolts which can lead to snapping or backing out during operation.

3. Thread Preparation and Locking Compound

For maximum security, ensure that the internal threads on your drive flanges and transaxle stubs are completely free of grease and oil. Use a shot of brake cleaner to degrease the threads before installation. Many master VW builders recommend applying a small drop of blue (medium strength) thread-locking compound to each bolt. This provides an extra layer of vibration resistance. Additionally, always check your CV bolts after the first 100 miles of driving following a service to ensure they have remained tight and haven''t settled.