Ball Joint Inner Bearing 1.138, Beetle & Ghia 69-79

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the safety and handling of your classic air-cooled Volkswagen, few components play as critical a role as the front wheel bearings. This EMPI Ball Joint Inner Bearing is engineered specifically for the late-model Beetle, Ghia, and Type 3 models that transitioned to the larger spindle diameter starting in 1969. Over time, heat, friction, and environmental contaminants break down the grease and wear out the rollers, leading to a loud humming noise, steering wheel vibration, or excessive play in the front end. By installing this high-quality 1.138-inch inner bearing, you are ensuring that your wheels spin freely with minimal resistance, which not only improves your driving experience but also protects your spindles from costly damage caused by bearing seizure or overheating. It is a vital upgrade for any enthusiast looking to maintain the structural integrity of their front suspension.

Precision is the name of the game with VW front-end components, and EMPI delivers a part that meets or exceeds original equipment specifications for a perfect fit every time. This inner bearing is the foundation of your front hub assembly, sitting closest to the spindle upright where the load is heaviest during cornering and braking. Whether you are performing a routine brake job, upgrading to a front disc brake conversion, or restoring a barn-find Karmann Ghia, replacing the inner bearings is a non-negotiable step for long-term reliability. Don''t settle for "good enough" when it comes to the parts that keep your tires on the road; choose a bearing designed to handle the unique stresses of the ball-joint front end and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a smooth, quiet, and vibration-free ride across any terrain.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle (Standard): 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Fastback, Squareback, Notchback): 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973
• Note: Fits Ball Joint front ends only. Does not fit King and Link Pin models.

SPECS

• Inner Diameter: 1.138 Inches (28.9mm)
• Outer Diameter: 1.982 Inches (50.3mm)
• Thickness/Width: 0.420 Inches (10.6mm)
• OEM Reference Number: 311-405-625B
• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Placement: Front Inner (Left or Right side)
• Material: High-grade hardened steel for maximum durability
• Construction: Tapered roller bearing design

PRO TIPS

1. The Secret to Proper Packing

Never install a "dry" bearing. To ensure longevity, you must pack the bearing with high-quality, high-temperature lithium-based grease. While many enthusiasts use the "palm of the hand" method to force grease between the rollers and the cage, using a mechanical bearing packer tool ensures a more consistent and air-pocket-free application. Remember, the inner bearing is the first line of defense against spindle heat, so using a grease rated for disc brakes is highly recommended even if you are running drums, as it offers a higher drop point and better thermal stability.

2. Inspect the Spindle Surface

Before sliding your new inner bearing onto the spindle, take a moment to inspect the bearing surface of the spindle for any signs of "spinning" or "bluing." If the previous bearing failed, it may have left microscopic burrs or heat damage on the spindle shaft. Use a fine-grit emery cloth to lightly clean the surface until it is smooth to the touch. If the spindle is significantly grooved or undersized, the new bearing will not sit properly, leading to premature failure. A light coat of grease on the