Hd Throw Out Bearing Shaft, Fits Type 2 Bus 71-75

OVERVIEW

When you''re piloting a vintage Volkswagen Type 2 Bus through winding backroads or loaded down for a weekend camping trip, the last thing you want to worry about is a failure in your clutch linkage. The clutch throw-out bearing shaft is the unsung hero of your drivetrain, responsible for translating your foot''s pressure into the mechanical movement that disengages the engine from the transaxle. Over decades of use, factory shafts often suffer from severe metal fatigue, "egging out" at the pivot points, or even snapping under the increased pressure of modern heavy-duty pressure plates. This EMPI Heavy Duty Throw Out Bearing Shaft is engineered specifically to handle the rigors of the 1971 to 1975 Bus, providing a rock-solid foundation for your clutch system. By utilizing high-tensile strength materials and precise manufacturing tolerances, this shaft eliminates the "mushy" pedal feel often associated with worn-out components, ensuring that every gear change is crisp, predictable, and reliable.

At Appletree Automotive, we know that "close enough" isn''t good enough when it comes to your air-cooled investment. This HD shaft features a precise 15.9mm diameter, designed to fit perfectly within the transaxle housing of the 002-style gearboxes found in early-to-mid 70s Busses. Unlike inferior replacements that use soft-grade steel, this heavy-duty version is built to resist twisting and surface wear, which are common culprits behind clutch chatter and uneven bearing engagement. Whether you are performing a full concourse restoration or simply trying to get your daily driver back on the road with more confidence, upgrading to a brand-new, reinforced throw-out shaft is a critical step. Don''t risk getting stranded with a broken clutch fork or a seized shaft; install the hardware that was built to outlast the original and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with professional-grade air-cooled components.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus (Transporter/Kombi/Campmobile): 1971
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus (Transporter/Kombi/Campmobile): 1972
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus (Transporter/Kombi/Campmobile): 1973
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus (Transporter/Kombi/Campmobile): 1974
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus (Transporter/Kombi/Campmobile): 1975
• Compatible Transaxles: Specifically designed for 002-style Bus gearboxes utilizing the 15.9mm shaft diameter.

SPECS

• Part Number: 18-1044-0
• Diameter: 15.9mm (Standard Heavy Duty Specification)
• Material: High-Tensile Forged Steel for maximum torque resistance.
• Finish: Corrosion-resistant coating to prevent binding and rust in the bellhousing.
• Application Type: Direct replacement for OE Volkswagen part numbers.
• Quantity: Sold Individually.
• Weight: Approximately 1.0 lb.

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Always Replace the Bushings and Seals

When you have the transaxle out to replace the throw-out bearing shaft, never reuse the old pilot bushings. Worn bushings allow the shaft to vibrate or tilt, which leads to premature wear on both the new shaft and your clutch release bearing. We highly recommend installing high-quality brass or urethane bushings and ensuring the external oil seal is fresh to prevent transaxle fluid from contaminating your clutch disc. A small amount of high-temp molybdenum grease on the pivot points will ensure smooth operation for years to come.

Tip 2: Inspect the Clutch Fork and Return Spring

The shaft is only one half of the equation; while the transaxle is accessible, carefully inspect the clutch fork ears where they contact the bearing. If you see significant flat spots or thinning metal, replace the fork along with the shaft. Additionally, ensure your return spring has proper tension. A weak return spring can allow the bearing to "ride" the pressure plate fingers, leading to excessive heat and localized wear on your brand-new HD shaft.

Tip 3: Check for Proper Cable Alignment

A common cause for broken or bent throw-out shafts in Type 2 Busses is a misaligned or binding clutch cable. Ensure your clutch cable conduit has the proper "sag" or "arch" as specified in the factory manual. If the cable pulls at an extreme angle, it puts lateral stress on the shaft, which can cause it to bind in the housing. After installing this heavy-duty shaft, take the time to adjust your clutch pedal free-play to the standard 10mm to 20mm range to ensure the bearing fully retreats from the pressure plate when the pedal is released.