16-1/4 Axles 33 Spline Pair Fits VW Type 1 & 2 CV Joints

EMPI 16-1/4" 33-Spline Axles for VW Type 1 & Type 2 CV Joints

Product Overview

Upgrade your Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) with the EMPI 16-1/4 inch 33-spline axle pair. These high-performance axles are engineered to handle the rigors of off-road racing and heavy-duty street use. By allowing the axle to wrap up slightly like a torsion bar, these units significantly reduce the shock load transmitted to your transmission's final drive, extending the life of your drivetrain components.

Technical Specifications and Fitment

These axles feature a 33-spline configuration and are 16-1/4 inches in length. They are designed to fit both VW Type 1 (Beetle/Ghia) and Type 2 (Bus/Transporter) CV joints. The larger serrations and 2-1/2 inch long splines allow both hubs to float and find their natural centers, ensuring smoother operation and reduced binding during suspension travel. These are ideal for Beetle IRS conversions, Dune Buggies, and Sand Rails requiring increased durability.

Pro Tech Tips

Tip 1: Verify Suspension Geometry. When installing 16-1/4 inch axles in a custom IRS setup, always cycle the suspension through its full range of motion (from full droop to full compression) without the springs or shocks installed. This ensures that the CV joints do not "bottom out" or bind at extreme angles, which can cause immediate axle or transmission failure.

Tip 2: Use High-Quality CV Grease. Because these axles are designed to "float" and find their natural center, proper lubrication is critical. Use a high-quality molybdenum disulfide (moly) grease specifically rated for high-angle CV joints. Ensure the 2-1/2 inch splines are lightly coated to prevent galling or seizing within the CV hub over time.

Tip 3: Check Snap Ring Security. After sliding your Type 1 or Type 2 CV joints onto the 33-spline shafts, double-check that the snap rings are fully seated in their grooves. Given the torsion-bar nature of these axles, any lateral "walking" caused by a loose snap ring can lead to spline damage or the axle popping out of the joint during hard acceleration.