Billet Look Running Board, for All Years Aircooled Beetle

OVERVIEW

Elevate the profile of your classic Volkswagen with the EMPI Billet Look Running Boards, the definitive upgrade for enthusiasts seeking a blend of modern durability and timeless custom styling. Unlike traditional stamped steel running boards that are prone to oxidation, scaling, and eventual rust-through, these boards are engineered from heavy-duty, thick extruded aluminum. This material choice ensures a lifetime of service while providing a rock-solid platform every time you step into your vehicle. The finish is a striking combination of high-gloss black powder coating accented by precision-polished longitudinal ribs and a brilliant polished outer edge. This "billet look" provides a high-end, machined aesthetic that perfectly complements both radical custom builds and clean, "cal-look" street machines, ensuring your Beetle stands out at the local show or on the open highway.

Beyond their stunning visual appeal, these running boards are designed with the rigors of daily driving in mind. The thick-wall aluminum construction provides significantly more rigidity than standard aftermarket alternatives, reducing flex and preventing the "sagging" often seen on older Beetles. Because they are immune to the corrosion that plagues factory-style boards, you won''t have to worry about the unsightly bubbling or peeling of rubber mats or chrome trim. Each set comes as a complete pair and includes all the necessary mounting hardware to facilitate a straightforward installation. Whether you are finishing a ground-up restoration or simply looking to replace your weathered factory boards with something that offers more "pop," these EMPI billet-style boards deliver the premium quality and fitment that Appletree Auto customers have come to expect from a world-class air-cooled specialist.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Standard): All Years (1946-1977)
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: All Years (1971-1979)
• Volkswagen Mexican Beetle: All Years
• Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet (Convertible): All Years

SPECS

• Material: Heavy-duty thick-wall extruded aluminum.
• Finish: Gloss black powder-coated base with polished raised ribs.
• Edge Detail: Precision polished outer edge for a custom machined look.
• Quantity: Sold as a pair (Left and Right sides).
• Hardware: Includes all necessary bolts and mounting hardware.
• Corrosion Resistance: 100% rust-proof aluminum construction.
• Manufacturer: EMPI.
• Part Number: 15-3019-0.
• Weight: Approximately 8.2 lbs per pair.

PRO TIPS

1. Prepare Your Heater Channels

Before attempting to bolt on your new billet-look running boards, it is crucial to inspect the captive nuts inside your Beetle''s heater channels. Over decades, these threads often become clogged with road grime, old undercoating, or rust. We recommend using a 7mm or 8mm thread chaser (depending on your specific year''s hardware) to clean out the mounting holes. Applying a small amount of anti-seize lubricant to the new bolts will not only make the installation smoother but will also prevent the hardware from seizing in the future, ensuring that your high-end aluminum boards remain easy to service if you ever need to remove them for fender work.

2. Achieve the Perfect Alignment

When installing these boards, do not tighten the bolts fully until every fastener is started and the board is properly aligned with the fenders. Aluminum running boards offer a very rigid structure, which means they won''t "bend" to fit like thin steel boards might. Align the board so that it sits flush against the fender beads at both the front and the rear. If you find a gap, you may need to slightly loosen your fender bolts to adjust the fender position. Taking an extra ten minutes to ensure the boards are perfectly parallel to the heater channel will result in a much more professional, factory-plus appearance.

3. Maintain the Machined Brilliance

To keep the polished ribs and edges looking like mirrors, avoid using harsh acidic wheel cleaners or abrasive degreasers, as these can dull the polished aluminum finish or stain the black powder coating. Instead, treat these boards like you would high-quality billet wheels. Wash them with a pH-neutral car soap and a soft microfiber mitt. Periodically, apply a high-quality aluminum polish to the raised ribs and outer edge to remove any minor oxidation from road salt or moisture. Following up with a synthetic sealant or wax will provide a protective barrier that keeps the gloss black deep and the polished accents bright for years to come.