Bamboo Package Tray, for All Years Aircooled Beetle

Enhance Your Vintage Interior with the Iconic EMPI Bamboo Package Tray

The EMPI Bamboo Package Tray is more than just a storage solution; it is a time-honored staple of the vintage Volkswagen scene that adds immediate character and period-correct style to your Beetle''s interior. Originally designed to compensate for the limited storage space in the early Type 1 cabins, this under-dash parcel shelf provides a dedicated area for maps, sunglasses, tools, or small personal items that otherwise clutter your seats or floorboards. Crafted with a genuine bamboo weave and a sturdy frame, this tray captures that classic "California Look" or "Resto-Cal" vibe that VW enthusiasts have coveted for decades. It doesn''t just serve a functional purpose; it completes the aesthetic of a well-curated air-cooled interior, bridging the gap between utilitarian German engineering and the laid-back lifestyle associated with the air-cooled hobby.

Beyond its visual appeal, the durability and ease of installation make this bamboo tray a must-have upgrade for any serious restoration or daily-driven Beetle. The tray is designed to mount securely beneath the dashboard, utilizing a steel support structure that ensures it stays firmly in place even during spirited driving. Because the air-cooled Beetle lacks a modern center console, this accessory effectively doubles your accessible storage space without requiring permanent or destructive modifications to your dash or metalwork. Whether you are prepping your car for a local show or heading out on a cross-country road trip, the EMPI bamboo tray offers the perfect blend of vintage charm and modern-day convenience, ensuring your cabin remains organized while maintaining its timeless appeal.

Vehicle Fitment and Compatibility

This package tray is designed specifically for the Volkswagen Type 1 Sedan. Please review the fitment requirements below to ensure compatibility with your specific air-cooled project.

• Volkswagen Beetle (Standard Sedan): 1946 through 1977 (All years).
• Volkswagen Beetle (Mexican Production): 1978 through 2003 (Standard Sedan models).
• Note on Super Beetles: This unit WILL NOT fit Super Beetle (1302 or 1303) models due to the different dashboard geometry and steering column placement.
• Note on Convertibles: This unit WILL NOT fit Convertible models due to the additional body bracing and under-dash structural differences.

Technical Specifications

As a master air-cooled specialist, I know the details matter. Here are the technical specifications for the EMPI 00-4870-0 Bamboo Package Tray:

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-4870-0
• Primary Material: Natural hand-woven bamboo.
• Frame Construction: Heavy-duty steel wire frame for structural rigidity.
• Hardware Included: Includes all necessary mounting brackets, screws, and hardware.
• Installation Position: Under-dash / Passenger and Driver side span.
• Shipping Weight: 4.6 lbs.
• Finish: Natural bamboo with a protective clear coat to resist moisture and UV fading.
• GTIN: 707924328332

Pro Tips from the Garage

Pro Tip 1: Perfect Alignment and Leveling

When installing your bamboo tray, do not tighten the mounting screws all the way until every bracket is in place. Because every Beetle body has slightly shifted over the last 50 years, you will want to "dry fit" the tray first. Use a small level or simply eyeball the alignment against the bottom of the dashboard lip. Once the tray is centered and level, tighten the hardware gradually, alternating sides to ensure the frame doesn''t twist or bind. This prevents the bamboo from rattling against the dash during engine idling.

Pro Tip 2: Long-Term Bamboo Maintenance

Natural bamboo is a durable material, but it can dry out over time if exposed to extreme heat and direct sunlight through your windshield. Every few months, I recommend wiping the tray down with a high-quality wood conditioner or a light furniture oil. This keeps the fibers flexible and prevents the weave from becoming brittle or cracking. Additionally, if you live in a high-humidity environment, ensuring your window seals are tight will prevent any mildew from forming on the natural organic fibers.

Pro Tip 3: Eliminating Vibration and Noise

The air-cooled flat-four engine is known for its vibration, which can sometimes cause metal-on-metal or metal-on-bamboo buzzing. To ensure a silent ride, I recommend placing small adhesive-backed felt pads or thin rubber grommets at the contact points where the tray frame meets the car''s body or the dashboard. This small step makes a massive difference in the interior "feel" of the car, giving you the classic look of the bamboo tray without any unwanted harmonic resonance while you are cruising down the highway.