Bearing Retainer Cap, for Swing Axle, Each

OVERVIEW

When you''re deep into a restoration or a high-end buggy build, every detail matters, right down to the components that secure your drivetrain. This Chrome Bearing Retainer Cap is specifically engineered for the unique 1968-only swing axle rear end, providing a crucial bridge between your axle tube and your braking system. In the world of air-cooled Volkswagens, 1968 was a definitive transition year, and these caps are designed to accommodate the specific offset and sealing requirements of that era''s swing axle assemblies. Finished in a high-luster show chrome, these caps don''t just provide the structural integrity needed to keep your rear wheel bearings seated; they add a professional, polished look to your undercarriage that stands out at any show or off-road meet.

Beyond the aesthetics, these heavy-duty steel caps are built to withstand the rigors of both daily street use and the vibration-heavy environment of a weekend woods buggy. Replacing your original, pitted, or warped factory caps is essential for maintaining a proper seal and preventing gear oil from migrating into your brake drums. While these aftermarket units are manufactured without the traditional weep holea common trend in modern production to simplify the casting and plating processthey offer a precise fit that ensures your bearing remains centered and secure. Whether you are refreshing a classic Beetle or finishing off a custom sand rail, these bearing retainers provide the reliability and "pop" that Appletree Auto customers expect from their performance hardware.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1968 (Swing Axle Models)
• Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia: 1968 (Swing Axle Models)
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Any custom chassis utilizing a 1968-spec swing axle transaxle and axle tubes.
• Note: Specifically for 4-lug (4x130mm) swing axle configurations typical of the 1968 model year.

SPECS

• Material: High-strength stamped steel construction.
• Finish: Triple-process show-quality chrome plating.
• Application: Rear wheel bearing retainer cap for swing axle suspension.
• Year Compatibility: 1968 Only (Transition year spec).
• Weight: Approximately 1.65 lbs.
• Quantity: Sold individually (Each).
• Part Number: AC520201 (Cross-reference: 17-2702-0).
• Design Feature: Solid face design (does not include a drainage weep hole).

PRO TIPS

1. Mastering the Seal Installation

Since these chrome caps do not feature a weep hole, the integrity of your inner and outer seals is more important than ever. If gear oil bypasses the seals, it won''t have a path to exit the housing and will instead saturate your brake shoes. When installing, always use a dedicated seal driver to ensure the outer seal is seated perfectly square within the cap. Any slight tilt or "cocking" of the seal during installation will lead to premature failure. We also recommend a very light skim of Curil T or a similar non-hardening sealant on the outer diameter of the seal before pressing it into the chrome cap to ensure a leak-proof fit.

2. Protecting the Chrome During Assembly

There is nothing worse than scratching a brand-new chrome part during the final stages of a build. When you are tightening the four retainer bolts, use a high-quality 6-point socket rather than a 12-point to prevent slipping and rounding the bolt heads or marring the chrome surface of the cap. Furthermore, ensure that the mating surface of the axle tube is perfectly clean and free of old gasket material. We suggest using a new paper gasket on both sides of the backing plate, lightly coated with oil or a sealant, to create a sandwich that prevents any gear oil from weeping out from behind the retainer.

3. Torque Specs and "The Star Pattern"

Proper torque is the secret to a long-lasting rear end. These caps should be torqued in a cross or "star" pattern to ensure even pressure is applied across the bearing and the gaskets. For a 1968 swing axle, the standard torque spec for these M10 bolts is approximately 43 ft-lbs. Don''t just crank them down by hand; use a calibrated torque wrench. Even pressure ensures that the cap doesn''t warp, which is the leading cause of bearing noise and oil leaks in air-cooled VW transaxles. Check your torque again after the first 50 miles of driving to ensure everything has seated properly under the load of the vehicle.