Heim End for Slave Saver, 5/16 for CNC Slave Cylinders

OVERVIEW

When it''s time to beef up your air-cooled Volkswagen''s hydraulic clutch system, every component matters, and the EMPI Heim End for the Slave Saver is a critical piece of that puzzle. Designed specifically to interface with CNC slave cylinders, this 5/16-inch ball rod end provides the necessary articulation to prevent binding during the clutch engagement cycle. In the high-vibration environment of a performance VW engine bay, rigid connections are prone to fatigue and failure. By utilizing a spherical Heim joint, you allow the slave cylinder''s pushrod to maintain a perfectly linear path, even if the mounting brackets or clutch release arm aren''t perfectly aligned. This reduces side-load on the internal seals of your CNC slave cylinder, significantly extending its service life and ensuring a consistent pedal feel every time you shift gears.

For off-road enthusiasts driving sand rails, Baja Bugs, or heavy-duty Manx-style buggies, the "Slave Saver" setup is a legendary modification that prevents the slave cylinder from over-extending and blowing out its internal piston. This Heim end is the heavy-duty link that makes that protection possible. Constructed with a 3/8-inch by 24-thread shank, it offers superior tensile strength compared to smaller alternatives. Whether you are navigating technical rock crawls or blasting through the dunes, this zinc-plated steel component is built to resist corrosion and handle the mechanical stresses of a high-pressure hydraulic system. Don''t settle for inferior hardware when your drivetrain''s reliability is on the line; trust the specialist-grade components that Appletree Automotive provides for the global VW community.

FITMENT

• CNC Slave Cylinders: Direct fit for most standard and pull-type CNC hydraulic slave cylinders.
• VW Type 1: Beetle and Super Beetle models equipped with hydraulic clutch conversions.
• VW Type 2: 1950-1979 Bus, Transporter, and Kombi models with upgraded hydraulic linkages.
• VW Type 3: Fastback, Notchback, and Squareback custom hydraulic setups.
• Off-Road: Sand Rails, Dune Buggies, Baja Bugs, and Meyer''s Manx builds.
• Custom Applications: Any air-cooled VW or specialty kit car utilizing a 5/16-inch mounting pin and 3/8-24 threaded rod.

SPECS

• Thread Size: 3/8"-24 (Fine Thread).
• Ball Bore Diameter: 5/16".
• Material: High-strength carbon steel.
• Finish: Corrosion-resistant Zinc plating.
• Type: Spherical Rod End (Heim Joint).
• Compatibility: Designed for Slave Saver assemblies and CNC slave cylinders.
• Part Number: 17-2818-0.
• Quantity: Sold individually.

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Alignment and Pre-Load

When installing the Heim end onto your Slave Saver rod, ensure that the spherical ball is centered within the housing at the midpoint of your clutch pedal''s travel. If the Heim joint is already at its maximum angle when the clutch is disengaged, it will bind as soon as you depress the pedal. This binding creates immense leverage that can snap the 3/8-inch threaded rod or crack the mounting ear on your CNC slave cylinder. Take the time to mock up the movement and ensure the joint has free range of motion throughout the entire stroke.

2. Prevent Grit Contamination

In the world of off-road VWs, sand and silt are the enemies of moving parts. While it is tempting to slather the Heim end in grease, this actually attracts abrasive particles that act like grinding paste inside the race. Instead, use a "dry" PTFE or silicone-based lubricant. These sprays provide the necessary reduction in friction without creating a sticky surface that traps dirt. If you frequently drive in muddy conditions, consider using a rubber rod-end boot to completely seal the spherical bearing from the elements.

3. Use a Jam Nut for Security

Air-cooled engines are notorious for high-frequency vibrations that can vibrate even the tightest bolts loose over time. Never install a Heim end without a high-quality jam nut (3/8-24). Once you have adjusted your Slave Saver to the perfect length to protect your slave cylinder, tighten the jam nut firmly against the Heim end body. This locks the threads in place and prevents the adjustment from "walking," which could lead to either a clutch that won''t fully disengage or a slave cylinder that is no longer protected from over-extension.