Bearing Retainer Cap, for Swing Axle, 68 ONLY Each

OVERVIEW

When you''re rebuilding the rear end of your classic Volkswagen, the small details make the biggest difference in both performance and longevity. This chrome bearing retainer cap is designed specifically for the unique requirements of the 1968 swing axle configuration, providing a secure housing for your rear wheel bearings while adding a custom, show-quality finish to your drivetrain. Over decades of use, original factory retainer caps often become warped, pitted, or heavily corroded, which can lead to persistent gear oil leaks and improper bearing seating. By upgrading to these Latest Rage chrome units, you aren''t just improving the aesthetics of your undercarriage; you are ensuring that the critical interface between your axle tube and the wheel bearing remains tight and leak-free. These caps are engineered to meet the specific depth and bolt pattern requirements of the one-year-only 1968 swing axle assembly, making them an essential component for any serious restoration or performance build.

The 1968 model year was a pivotal transition period for the Beetle and Karmann Ghia, resulting in several components that are exclusive to that year alone. This bearing retainer cap addresses the specific geometry of the 1968 swing axle rear end, which utilizes a different seal and bearing offset than earlier or later models. Please note that these aftermarket units are manufactured without the traditional weep hole. While the original factory caps included a small hole designed to divert leaking gear oil away from the brake shoes, modern high-quality seal kits and proper installation techniques have made this feature less critical for street applications. However, as an air-cooled specialist, I recommend meticulously checking your inner and outer seals during installation to ensure a bone-dry assembly. Sold individually, these caps provide the heavy-duty clamping force necessary to keep your rear suspension geometry stable during hard cornering and high-torque launches, all while maintaining that classic VW chrome shine.

FITMENT

This part is designed specifically for the following 1968 models equipped with a Swing Axle suspension: 1968 Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Sedan & Convertible) 1968 Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia (Coupe & Convertible) Custom Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes utilizing a 1968-spec Swing Axle transmission and axle tubes. Note: Does not fit 1968 models equipped with IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) or swing axle models from 1967 or earlier without modification.

SPECS

• Product Brand: Latest Rage
• Part Number: AC520202
• Material: Heavy-duty stamped steel construction
• Finish: High-luster triple-plate chrome
• Application: Rear wheel bearing retainer / end cap
• Suspension Type: Swing Axle only
• Specific Fitment: 1968 model year geometry
• Weep Hole: Not included (Solid design)
• Quantity: Sold each (Two required per vehicle)
• Weight: Approximately 1.65 lbs per unit

PRO TIPS

1. Ensure Perfect Seal Compression

When installing these chrome caps, it is vital to remember that the chrome plating can sometimes be thicker around the bolt holes. Before final assembly, dry-fit the cap against the axle housing to ensure it sits perfectly flush. Always use a new high-quality O-ring and a fresh paper gasket set. I highly recommend applying a very thin, even layer of Curil T or a similar non-hardening sealant to both sides of the paper gaskets. This compensates for the lack of a weep hole by creating a redundant barrier against gear oil migration toward your brake backing plates.

2. Use the Star Pattern Torque Method

Because these caps are responsible for holding the rear wheel bearing in place, uneven pressure can cause the cap to warp or the bearing to sit slightly crooked, leading to premature wear. Always tighten the four mounting bolts in a diagonal ''''star'''' pattern. Start by hand-tightening all four, then use a torque wrench to tighten them in increments until you reach the factory specification (usually around 43 ft-lbs for M10 bolts). This ensures the cap applies even pressure across the entire circumference of the bearing race and the axle tube flange.

3. Check the Inner Spacer and Seal Surface

Since the 1968 swing axle has a specific depth, always verify that your inner spacer and the shoulder of the axle are free of burrs or old gasket material before sliding the new chrome cap into place. If you are using aftermarket heavy-duty axles, check the clearance between the cap''s inner bore and the axle shaft. The chrome finish is durable, but you want to avoid any metal-on-metal contact during the initial setup. If you find the cap is tight on the axle, a light sanding of the inner diameter of the cap can provide the necessary clearance without compromising the structural integrity of the part.