Cv Joint Kit, 90mm Type 1, for Beetle & Ghia 68-79

OVERVIEW

When it comes to maintaining the drivetrain of your classic air-cooled Volkswagen, the Constant Velocity (CV) joints are some of the most critical yet overlooked components. This EMPI 90mm Type 1 CV Joint Kit is engineered to restore the smooth, vibration-free power delivery that your Beetle or Karmann Ghia deserves. Over decades of use, factory CV joints wear down, developing play that leads to clicking noises, shuddering during acceleration, and eventually, catastrophic failure that can leave you stranded on the side of the road. This comprehensive kit isn''t just a replacement part; it''s a precision-manufactured solution designed to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, ensuring that your vintage ride handles modern road conditions with ease. Whether you are performing a stock restoration or maintaining a daily driver, upgrading to a fresh EMPI kit provides the peace of mind that comes from knowing your transaxle is connected to your wheels by high-quality, heat-treated steel components.

We understand that doing the job right means having everything you need in one box, which is why this kit includes the 90mm CV joint, a high-flexibility rubber boot, heavy-duty clamps, a secure snap ring, and a pack of specialized molybdenum grease. The 90mm outer diameter is the standard for the 1968 through 1979 Type 1 platform, featuring a 33-spline inner race that slides perfectly onto your factory or aftermarket axles. By replacing the entire assembly rather than just cleaning out old, gritty grease, you eliminate the risk of premature wear caused by microscopic pitting on the internal races or balls. This kit is a favorite among VW enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike because it eliminates the guesswork and provides a durable, long-lasting barrier against the elements. Don''t settle for inferior, unbranded components when you can trust the legendary performance of EMPI to keep your Volkswagen rolling for the next several decades.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle (Sedan & Convertible): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973, 1974 (Standard IRS applications)
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Sand Rails, Dune Buggies, and Kit Cars utilizing Type 1 IRS trailing arms and 90mm flanges.

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 87-9916-K
• Outside Diameter: 90mm (Approx. 3.54 inches)
• Spline Count: 33-Spline Inner Race
• Ball Size: 0.6875 inches (11/16")
• Material: High-grade forged and heat-treated steel
• Kit Contents: (1) 90mm CV Joint, (1) Rubber Boot, (2) Clamps, (1) Snap Ring, (1) Moly Grease Pack
• Style: Type 1 Independent Rear Suspension (IRS)

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Grease Packing is Essential

The most common mistake during installation is under-greasing or improperly packing the joint. You shouldn''t just squeeze the grease on top of the cage; you need to work the molybdenum grease deep into the center of the cage and between the balls until it pushes out the other side. This ensures that every moving surface has a protective film of lubricant from the very first rotation, preventing the "dry start" wear that kills many new joints. Use the entire pack provided to ensure maximum longevity.

2. Torque Your Bolts in a Star Pattern

When reinstalling your CV bolts (the M8 triple-square or hex head bolts), always use a torque wrench to tighten them to 25 ft-lbs. It is vital to tighten them in a star or cross-pattern to ensure the joint sits perfectly flush against the flange. We highly recommend using new Schnorr (ribbed) lock washers or a small drop of blue thread-locker on the threads. Loose CV bolts are a leading cause of axle failure and can cause significant damage to your transaxle case if the axle detaches while driving.

3. Check Boot Neutrality and Venting

Before tightening the small end of the boot clamp on the axle shaft, ensure the boot is in a neutral "accordion" position. If the boot is stretched too tight or compressed too much when the car is at ride height, the rubber will fatigue and tear prematurely as the suspension cycles up and down. Additionally, it is a smart move to "burp" the boot by sliding a small screwdriver under the lip before the final clamping to release trapped air, which prevents the boot from ballooning or collapsing due to heat and pressure