Swing Axle Boot, Split Style, Beetle & Ghia 56-68

OVERVIEW

Maintaining the integrity of your air-cooled Volkswagen''s drivetrain begins at the transaxle, and there is no component more vital for preventing messy leaks and catastrophic transmission failure than a high-quality swing axle boot. This EMPI Split Style Swing Axle Boot is the ultimate solution for owners of vintage Beetles, Ghias, and early Buses who want to protect their investment without the labor-intensive process of removing the entire axle assembly. Designed to encapsulate the pivot point where the axle tube meets the transmission case, this boot keeps your precious gear oil inside the differential while locking out road grime, moisture, and abrasive debris that can score your fulcrum plates and internal gears. When these boots crack or dry rot, the resulting leak can quickly drain your transaxle, leading to overheating and gear seizure, making this simple replacement a critical piece of preventative maintenance.

The EMPI Split Style design is a favorite among garage mechanics and professional restorers alike because it utilizes a heavy-duty seam secured by multiple screws and nuts. This allows for a "wrap-around" installation that saves hours of shop time, as you do not need to pull the brake drums, backing plates, or bearing housings to slide a solid boot onto the axle. Each kit is manufactured from a durable, oil-resistant rubber compound that is formulated to withstand the constant articulation of the rear suspension while resisting the harsh chemical environment of the underside of a VW. Sold as a complete kit including one boot and all necessary hardware, this is the most cost-effective and efficient way to ensure your classic VW remains leak-free and roadworthy for years to come.

FITMENT

This split-style boot is designed for Volkswagen models equipped with a swing axle rear suspension. It will not fit later models equipped with IRS (Independent Rear Suspension).

• Volkswagen Beetle (Type 1): 1946 through 1968
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1968
• Volkswagen Bus (Type 2): 1952 through 1967
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Notched, Square, Fastback): Early swing axle models
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Any custom application utilizing a pre-1969 VW swing axle transaxle

SPECS

• OEM Part Number Reference: 111-598-021A
• Brand: EMPI
• Material: High-grade, oil-resistant flexible elastomer
• Style: Split-type (Allows for installation without axle removal)
• Hardware Included: Seam screws, nuts, and large/small hose-style clamps
• Quantity: Sold Each (Two required per vehicle)
• Weight: 0.45 lbs
• Compatibility: Standard Swing Axle Transmissions

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Clocking is Critical for Longevity

When installing these split boots, the orientation of the seam is the single most important factor for preventing premature failure. You must NEVER position the seam facing straight up (12 o''clock) or straight down (6 o''clock). As the swing axle moves up and down during normal driving, a vertical seam will be subjected to extreme tension and compression, causing the rubber to tear or the screws to pull through. Instead, always "clock" the seam to either the 10 o''clock or 2 o''clock position. This allows the seam to move in a more natural arc with the suspension travel, significantly reducing stress on the hardware and ensuring a leak-free seal that lasts for thousands of miles.

2. Surface Preparation and Degreasing

Before you even think about wrapping the new boot around the axle, you must ensure that both the transmission flange and the axle tube are surgically clean. Use a high-quality brake cleaner or degreaser to remove every trace of old gear oil and road grit. If there is oil residue on the mounting surfaces, the boot will slide and rotate during operation, eventually leading to a leak. Additionally, check the metal flanges for any burrs or sharp edges left behind by old clamps; a quick pass with a fine-grit sandpaper can prevent these edges from slicing into your brand-new rubber boot during the tightening process.

3. Don''t Over-Tighten the Seam Hardware

It is a common mistake to over-torque the small screws and nuts that hold the split seam together. These fasteners are designed to create a snug, overlapping seal, not to be crushed into the rubber. Tighten them just until the rubber begins to slightly bulge around the washer; over-tightening will distort the seam, creating "puckers" where gear oil can seep out. For an extra layer of protection, many veteran VW builders apply a very thin bead of oil-resistant RTV silicone or Permatex Aviation Form-A-Gasket inside the seam flap before bolting it together. This creates a secondary chemical seal that provides peace of mind against the stubborn leaks that swing axles are known for.