Chrome Swing Axle Tubes, Sold As A Pair

OVERVIEW

Elevate the aesthetic and performance of your air-cooled drivetrain with the Latest Rage Chrome Swing Axle Tubes. These aren''t just simple covers; they are fully functional, high-quality replacement tubes designed to provide a stunning, mirror-like finish to your Volkswagen''s rear suspension. Whether you are building a full-blown show car, a weekend cruiser, or a high-end sand rail, these chrome tubes eliminate the dingy, rusted look of factory steel and replace it with a triple-plated chrome shine that demands attention. Engineered for durability and precision, these tubes are the perfect solution for enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on either style or structural integrity when refreshing their swing axle assembly.

Specifically designed for the "long axle" configuration, these 19-1/2 inch tubes offer a seamless fit for later swing axle transmissions. Replacing your axle tubes is often a necessity during a full transaxle rebuild or when converting a vehicle for off-road use where components are highly visible. By installing this pair of chrome tubes, you are not only ensuring a clean environment for your axle shafts and gear oil but also making future maintenance easier by utilizing a surface that resists grime buildup better than raw or painted cast parts. When you want your Type 1, Ghia, or Dune Buggy to stand out from the crowd at the next swap meet or trail ride, these Latest Rage tubes provide the ultimate finishing touch to your undercarriage.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle: 1961 through 1966 (Models equipped with long swing axles).
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1961 through 1966.
• Dune Buggies: All years using a VW Swing Axle transaxle with long axles.
• Sand Rails & Street Rods: Custom applications utilizing VW Type 1 swing axle geometry.
• Meyers Manx: Traditional swing axle kit builds.

SPECS

• Product Type: Swing Axle Tubes (Replacement).
• Quantity: Sold as a Pair (Left and Right).
• Overall Length: 19-1/2 Inches.
• Axle Compatibility: Designed for Long Axle setups.
• Finish: High-Lustre Polished Chrome.
• Material: Heavy-duty Steel Construction.
• Manufacturer: Latest Rage.
• Part Number: AC501150C.

PRO TIPS

1. Prioritize Sealing for a Leak-Free Show Finish

When installing these chrome tubes, the interface between the tube flange and the transmission case is critical. Always use a high-quality gasket kit and a thin smear of a fuel-resistant sealant like Permatex Aviation Form-A-Gasket. Because chrome is exceptionally smooth, ensuring a proper seal at the pivot point is vital to prevent gear oil from weeping out and ruining your polished finish. Don''t forget to inspect your plastic or brass thrust washers during this process; if they show any signs of scoring or thinning, replace them immediately to ensure the axle tube pivots smoothly without excessive play.

2. Choosing and Protecting Your Axle Boots

Since you are upgrading to show-quality chrome tubes, you should pair them with high-quality axle boots. We recommend using heavy-duty polyurethane boots for longevity or high-grade rubber for a traditional look. If you are using "split" boots for an easier installation, ensure the seam is facing toward the rear of the vehicle to prevent road debris from catching the lip. To keep the chrome looking its best, apply a coat of high-quality automotive wax to the tubes before final installation. This creates a barrier against moisture and road salt, making it much easier to wipe away dust and oil later on.

3. Verify Your Axle Length Before Installation

In the world of air-cooled Volkswagens, "long" and "short" axles are the two primary variations for swing axle cars. These 19-1/2 inch tubes are specifically meant for the long axle configuration typically found in the 1961-1966 era. Before you begin the teardown, measure your existing tubes from the flange to the end of the housing. Installing long tubes on short axles (or vice versa) will lead to significant geometry issues and potential drivetrain failure. Taking five minutes to verify your current axle length ensures a smooth, "bolt-on" experience without the frustration of mismatched parts mid-project.