Beauty Ring, 49-65, Set Of 4

OVERVIEW

Elevate the aesthetic of your vintage Volkswagen with the EMPI Polished Aluminum Beauty Ring Set, a definitive upgrade for enthusiasts looking to capture that iconic period-correct look. These trim rings are meticulously crafted to provide a seamless fit over your factory steel wheels, instantly transforming a utilitarian rim into a centerpiece of classic automotive design. Whether you are finishing a meticulous body-off restoration or simply want to add a touch of "Cal-Style" flair to your daily driver, these beauty rings offer a brilliant, mirror-like finish that perfectly complements chrome hubcaps and white-wall tires. By framing the outer edge of the wheel, they create a visual depth that makes the stock 15-inch rims appear wider and more refined, ensuring your air-cooled treasure stands out at any local meet or major VW show.

Durability meets classic styling in this set of four, engineered specifically for the 1949 through 1965 model years. Unlike cheap plastic alternatives or heavy steel rings that are prone to unsightly rusting, these EMPI rings are constructed from high-quality aluminum. This material choice ensures a lightweight profile that won''t disrupt your wheel balance while offering superior resistance to the elements. The polished surface provides a deep shine that mimics chrome but allows for easier maintenance and long-term luster. At Appletree Auto, we know that the details make the build, and these beauty rings are the "finishing touch" that bridges the gap between a standard stocker and a show-stopping vintage machine. They are designed for a secure, snap-on installation that grips the inner lip of the rim, providing a snug fit that stays put even during spirited coastal cruises or highway travel.

FITMENT

This beauty ring set is designed specifically for Volkswagen stock steel wheels (15-inch) found on the following models and years:

• VW Beetle (Type 1): 1949, 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965.
• VW Karmann Ghia (Type 14): 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965.
• VW Bus / Transporter (Type 2): 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965.
• Note: Specifically fits wheels with the "Wide 5" (5x205mm) bolt pattern and a 15-inch diameter.

SPECS

The following technical specifications ensure you are getting the highest quality hardware for your air-cooled project:

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-9553-0
• Material: High-Grade Polished Aluminum.
• Finish: Bright Mirror Polish.
• Quantity: Sold as a set of 4 rings.
• Wheel Compatibility: Standard 15-inch stock steel wheels.
• Installation Type: Snap-on retention system for a secure grip.
• Weight: Approximately 1.34 lbs per set.
• Design: Smooth-lip vintage profile.

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Seating and Installation

When installing your new beauty rings, it is vital to ensure the wheel surface is clean and free of debris or old adhesive. To prevent bending the aluminum, do not use a standard hammer. Instead, use the palm of your hand or a soft rubber mallet to gently tap the ring into place, working your way around the circumference in a star pattern. Make sure the valve stem is centered within the designated cutout of the ring to prevent any rubbing or damage to the stem, which could lead to air leaks over time. If the ring feels too loose, you can slightly flare the metal tension clips outward for a tighter bite on the rim lip.

2. Maintenance of Polished Aluminum

Polished aluminum requires different care than chrome. To keep these rings looking like new, avoid using harsh acid-based wheel cleaners which can cloud the finish. We recommend using a dedicated aluminum polish and a microfiber cloth once a month to remove road film and oxidation. If you live in a coastal area or a region where road salt is used, it is a good idea to apply a high-quality wheel wax or sealant. This creates a protective barrier that preserves the shine and makes cleaning off brake dust a much easier task during your weekly wash.

3. Balancing and Clearance Checks

Before snapping the rings into place, check for any wheel weights that may be clipped to the outer edge of your rim. If a wheel weight is positioned where the beauty ring needs to seat, it may prevent the ring from sitting flush or cause it to pop off while driving. In some cases, you may need to have your wheels rebalanced using "stick-on" weights applied to the inside of the rim barrel rather than the outer lip. This ensures a clean, professional appearance and prevents the beauty ring from being distorted or lost on the road.