Center Cap, Fits 5 On 205 Rim, Polished Aluminum, Pair

OVERVIEW

Elevate the aesthetic appeal of your classic air-cooled ride with this premium pair of EMPI Polished Aluminum Center Caps. Specifically engineered for the iconic 5 on 205mm (Wide-5) bolt pattern, these caps are the ultimate finishing touch for any restoration or custom build. Whether you are running classic BRM style wheels, Radars, or traditional wide-five steelies, these center caps provide a seamless, high-luster look that hides unsightly, greasy wheel bearings and rusty brake drum hubs. The polished aluminum finish offers a brilliant shine that rivals chrome but provides the lightweight and corrosion-resistant benefits of high-grade alloy, ensuring your Volkswagen stays looking show-ready for years to come.

Beyond their stunning visual impact, these center caps are designed with the rugged durability required for both street cruising and off-road adventures. At Appletree Auto, we know that the difference between a good build and a great build is in the details. These caps don''t just sit there; they complete the profile of your wheels, giving your Beetle, Bus, or Dune Buggy a cohesive and professional appearance. Sold as a pair, they are an essential upgrade for anyone looking to replace missing or pitted original caps with a modern, high-quality alternative that pays homage to vintage VW styling. If you''re tired of looking at exposed axle nuts and cotter pins, these polished aluminum covers are the solution you''ve been searching for.

FITMENT

These center caps are designed for wheels utilizing the 5x205mm "Wide-5" bolt pattern. Fitment includes, but is not limited to, the following models equipped with compatible aftermarket or original wheels:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1954 through 1967 (Standard and Deluxe models)
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter / Kombi: 1950 through 1970
• Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1966
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961 through 1965
• Custom Vehicles: Dune Buggies, Sandrails, Meyers Manx, and Kit Cars using Wide-5 drum or disc brake setups.

SPECS

• Part Number: 18-1115-0
• Material: High-Grade Cast Aluminum
• Finish: Mirror-Polished Surface
• Bolt Pattern Compatibility: 5 on 205mm (Wide-5)
• Installation Style: Friction-fit / Snap-in (Depending on wheel bore)
• Quantity: Sold as a Pair (2 Pieces)
• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Weight: Approximately 0.8 lbs per pair

PRO TIPS

1. Protect the Finish During Installation

When installing your new polished aluminum center caps, it is vital to avoid using a standard metal hammer, which will instantly mar and dent the soft aluminum surface. Instead, use a soft-faced rubber mallet or a dead-blow hammer. If the fit is particularly tight, place a thick microfiber towel over the cap before gently tapping it into place. Ensuring the cap is perfectly leveled before applying pressure will prevent the edges from catching and potentially scratching the wheel bore or the cap itself.

2. Regular Maintenance for Lasting Shine

Aluminum is naturally resistant to rust, but it can oxidize or become dull over time when exposed to road salt, brake dust, and moisture. To keep these caps looking like chrome, we recommend applying a high-quality, non-abrasive aluminum polish at least once every three months. For those living in coastal areas with high salt content in the air, a coat of synthetic wheel wax after polishing will provide an extra barrier of protection, making it much easier to wash away grime during your regular detailing sessions.

3. Verify Drum and Axle Clearance

Before finalizing your installation, always ensure there is adequate clearance between the inside of the center cap and the end of the axle or the grease cap on the brake drum. While these are designed to fit most standard Wide-5 applications, some heavy-duty aftermarket drums or long-spline axles may protrude further than stock. A quick "dry fit" without fully seating the cap will tell you if you need to make adjustments. If you encounter resistance, don''t force it, as you may pop the face of the cap or damage your grease seal.