Heim End for Slave Saver, 3/8 for RaceTrim Slave Cylinder

OVERVIEW

When you are pushing your air-cooled Volkswagen to the limit, whether it is on the drag strip or navigating technical dunes in a sand rail, the last thing you want to worry about is a mechanical failure in your hydraulic clutch system. The EMPI Heim End for Slave Saver is a critical component designed specifically for the RaceTrim slave cylinder setup. Unlike standard fixed rod ends that can bind or apply uneven lateral pressure to the internal seals of your slave cylinder, this high-quality heim joint provides a fluid range of motion. By allowing the linkage to pivot naturally as the clutch arm moves through its arc, you effectively eliminate the side-loading that leads to premature seal failure and fluid leaks. This is the professional way to ensure your hydraulic conversion remains reliable under the most demanding conditions.

Crafted with precision to meet the exacting standards of the RaceTrim line, this 3/8-inch heim end is built for longevity and performance. It features a robust steel construction that resists stretching and wear, providing a firm, communicative pedal feel that every VW enthusiast craves. If you have ever experienced a "mushy" clutch or had a slave cylinder fail in the middle of a trip, you know that the small details make the biggest difference. Integrating this heim end into your "Slave Saver" assembly means you are investing in a system that protects your more expensive hydraulic components. It is an essential upgrade for anyone running a high-pressure pressure plate where the mechanical leverage and angles are crucial to a smooth, repeatable release.

FITMENT

This product is designed for use with hydraulic clutch conversions utilizing the RaceTrim or EMPI style slave cylinders. Common applications include:

• Volkswagen Beetle: All years equipped with hydraulic clutch conversions.
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: All years utilizing RaceTrim slave cylinders.
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): Custom hydraulic setups.
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): Off-road builds with hydraulic pedal clusters.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All custom chassis using the RaceTrim 17-2810 or 17-2811 slave cylinders.
• Baja Bugs: Ideal for rugged terrain where engine and transaxle movement is frequent.

SPECS

• Thread Size: 3/8 inch - 24 (Fine Thread).
• Ball Bore Diameter: 3/8 inch.
• Material: High-tensile heat-treated steel housing.
• Finish: Zinc plated for superior corrosion resistance in harsh environments.
• Compatibility: Designed specifically for RaceTrim and EMPI Slave Saver assemblies.
• Part Number: 17-2817-0.
• Quantity: Sold individually.

PRO TIPS

Pro Tip 1: Proper Alignment is Key. While the heim end is designed to allow for articulation and prevent binding, you should still strive to mount your slave cylinder as square as possible to the clutch release arm. The heim joint is there to handle the natural arc of the arm, but excessive misalignment can still put unnecessary stress on the threads and the ball race. Double-check your mounting bracket rigidity to ensure it doesn''t flex under heavy pedal pressure.

Pro Tip 2: Use a Jam Nut for Security. Never install a heim end without a high-quality jam nut tightened against the body of the slave cylinder rod or the adapter. Without a jam nut, the vibration from an air-cooled engine can cause the heim end to rotate, changing your clutch adjustment or, worse, stripping the threads over time. A drop of medium-strength thread locker on the jam nut provides extra peace of mind for off-roaders.

Pro Tip 3: Maintenance in Sandy Conditions. If you are running your VW in the sand, avoid using heavy greases on the exposed ball of the heim joint. Grease tends to attract and hold abrasive sand, which acts like sandpaper and will quickly wear down the tolerances of the joint. Instead, use a "dry" PTFE-based lubricant or simply keep the joint clean with a shot of brake cleaner and compressed air after a weekend in the dunes to ensure smooth operation.