Bearing Retainer Cap, for Irs 69-79, Each

OVERVIEW

When it comes to maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of your classic Volkswagen''s rear suspension, the bearing retainer cap is a critical component that often goes overlooked until a failure occurs. This EMPI high-quality chrome bearing retainer cap is engineered specifically for Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) trailing arms, providing a secure housing for your outer wheel bearings and grease seals. In the world of air-cooled VWs, the IRS setup was a revolutionary step forward in handling and ride quality, but it relies heavily on the precision fit of these end caps to keep the lubricant in and the road grime out. Whether you are performing a ground-up restoration or simply refreshing your daily driver''s rear end, this 4-bolt retainer cap ensures that your axle assembly remains tightly packed and protected against the elements.

Beyond its functional role in securing the bearing race and seal, this retainer cap features a brilliant chrome finish that adds a professional, show-ready look to your undercarriage. Standard factory caps are often pitted, rusted, or deformed after decades of exposure to road salt and moisture, which can lead to seal failure and catastrophic bearing wear. Upgrading to this EMPI unit not only restores the factory-spec clamping force required for your rear diagonal arms but also provides that extra bit of "pop" for Dune Buggy and Sand Rail enthusiasts who want their hardware to look as good as it performs. Designed as a direct replacement for the original equipment, this cap fits seamlessly onto 1969 through 1979 IRS models, ensuring that your Bug, Ghia, or Type 3 stays on the road with the reliability that Appletree Automotive customers have come to expect.

FITMENT

This bearing retainer cap is designed for Volkswagen models equipped with Independent Rear Suspension (IRS). Please note it does not fit early Swing Axle models.

• VW Beetle (Sedan & Convertible): 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• VW Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973, 1974
• Custom Applications: Fits most aftermarket IRS trailing arms used in Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Baja Bugs.

SPECS

• Product Brand: EMPI
• Material: Heavy-duty stamped steel construction.
• Finish: Triple-process chrome plating for corrosion resistance and shine.
• Mounting Pattern: Standard 4-bolt IRS configuration.
• Application: Rear Trailing Arm (Outer).
• Quantity: Sold individually (Each). Two required per vehicle.
• Compatibility: Designed for use with standard IRS outer bearings and seals.

PRO TIPS

1. Ensure a Leak-Free Seal with Proper Gasket Preparation

When installing your new chrome bearing retainer cap, never rely on the metal-to-metal contact alone to keep your gear oil or grease contained. You must use a high-quality paper gasket between the cap and the trailing arm housing. A master tech secret is to apply a very thin, even smear of Permatex Aviation Form-A-Gasket or a similar non-hardening sealant to both sides of the paper gasket. This fills in the microscopic imperfections in the casting of the trailing arm and prevents the slow "weeping" of oil that often plagues older IRS setups. Be careful not to use excessive RTV silicone, as squeezed-out beads can break off inside the bearing housing and interfere with lubrication.

2. Inspect the Trailing Arm Surface for Burrs and Deformity

Before bolting down your new EMPI cap, take a moment to inspect the mounting flange on the trailing arm itself. Years of over-tightened bolts or previous mechanical failures can sometimes leave "high spots" around the bolt holes or burrs on the mating surface. Use a flat file to gently dress the surface and ensure it is perfectly flat. If the surface is uneven, the new chrome cap may not seat correctly, which can lead to uneven pressure on the bearing seal, causing premature failure. A flat mounting surface ensures that the 4-bolt pressure is distributed evenly across the entire circumference of the bearing race.

3. Use Fresh Hardware and Correct Torque Specs

It is highly recommended to replace your old, fatigued mounting bolts with new Grade 8.8 or higher hardware when installing these caps. Because these bolts are exposed to constant vibration and road debris, the threads can become stretched or corroded, leading to inaccurate torque readings. Tighten the four bolts in a "cross" or "star" pattern to ensure the cap seats perfectly level. The factory torque specification for these M8 bolts is approximately 18 ft-lbs (25 Nm). Over-tightening can warp the cap or strip the threads in the trailing arm casting, while under-tightening will inevitably lead to leaks and loose bearings. Always double-check your torque after the first 50 miles of driving to ensure everything has settled into place.