Hd Throw Out Bearing Shaft, Fits Type 2 Bus 002 68-70

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the drivetrain of your classic Bay Window, the clutch release system is the unsung hero that ensures every gear change is smooth and every launch is predictable. The EMPI Heavy Duty Throw Out Bearing Shaft is engineered specifically for the 1968 through 1970 VW Type 2 Bus equipped with the 002 transaxle. Over decades of use, factory cross shafts are notorious for developing hairline fractures, warping under the pressure of heavy-duty pressure plates, or simply wearing down at the bushing contact points. This replacement shaft is manufactured to exceed original equipment specifications, providing a rigid and reliable pivot point for your throw-out bearing. By eliminating the flex and "slop" associated with aged or inferior shafts, you restore the tactile feedback of your clutch pedal and ensure that the bearing makes square, even contact with the pressure plate every single time.

In the world of air-cooled Volkswagens, precision is the difference between a reliable daily driver and a vehicle that leaves you stranded at a stoplight. This HD shaft features a 15.9mm diameter, specifically designed to fit the early 002 bellhousing configurations found in the transitional years of the Type 2. Whether you are running a stock 1600cc upright engine or a mild performance build, the mechanical stress placed on the clutch arm is significant. EMPI has utilized high-tensile steel to ensure this shaft resists the twisting forces that often lead to "clutch chatter" or incomplete disengagement. Don''t risk your transmission''s internal health by reinstalling a pitted or bent original shaft; upgrading to this heavy-duty unit is a mandatory step for any serious engine-out service or transmission overhaul, providing peace of mind for thousands of miles to come.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus: 1968, 1969, 1970
• Transmission Type: 002 Transaxle Only
• Model Variants: Transporter, Kombi, Campmobile, Panel Van, Single Cab, and Double Cab Pickups.

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 18-1043-0
• Shaft Diameter: 15.9mm
• Material: Hardened High-Strength Steel Alloy
• Application: Heavy Duty Direct Replacement
• Finish: Natural Steel / Machined
• Compatibility: Designed for use with 1968-1970 specific 002 bellhousings
• Quantity: Sold Individually

PRO TIPS

1. Always Replace Your Bushings and Seals Simultaneously

Installing a brand-new, heavy-duty shaft into old, ovalized bronze bushings is a recipe for premature failure. When the engine is out of the vehicle, take the extra five minutes to drive out the old bushings in the bellhousing and install a fresh set. A new shaft requires a tight tolerance to operate without lateral movement. Additionally, ensure you replace the external seal where the clutch arm exits the transaxle case to prevent gear oil from leaking out or road grime from entering the pivot area, which can cause the shaft to bind over time.

2. Use High-Temperature Urea or Moly Grease Sparingly

Proper lubrication is critical for the smooth rotation of the shaft, but excessive grease is the enemy of your clutch disc. Apply a thin, even coat of high-temperature grease to the shaft journals where they ride in the bushings and on the "fork" tips where they contact the throw-out bearing. Avoid using standard chassis grease, which can liquefy under the high heat of the bellhousing and centrifugal force, potentially spraying onto the friction surface of the clutch disc and causing slipping. A specialized "clutch spline" or "urea" grease is the professional choice for this application.

3. Inspect the Clutch Arm and Return Spring Geometry

Before final installation, slide your clutch arm onto the new shaft and check for a tight spline or pin fit. If the arm has any "wobble" on the shaft, the arm itself may be worn and should be replaced. Furthermore, ensure your return spring is under the correct tension. If the spring is weak, the throw-out bearing may lightly "ride" against the pressure plate fingers while you are driving, leading to rapid bearing wear and unnecessary heat buildup. A crisp, snap-back return ensures the new heavy-duty shaft remains in the neutral position when your foot is off the pedal.