Chromoly Link Pin, 5/8 Diameter, 4 Pack

OVERVIEW

When you are pushing your air-cooled Volkswagen to the limit, whether it is on the dunes or at the drag strip, your suspension components take the brunt of the abuse. Standard link pins are often the weak link in a performance front end, especially when you move away from factory components to heavy-duty, aftermarket trailing arms. These EMPI Chromoly Link Pins are engineered specifically to bridge that gap, providing the extra length and superior strength required for high-performance applications. Made from high-tensile 4130 Chromoly, these pins are designed to withstand the extreme shear forces and constant oscillation that come with increased suspension travel and wider arm configurations. If you are building a Baja Bug, a woods buggy, or a competitive sand rail, you cannot afford to compromise on the hardware that keeps your spindles attached to your trailing arms. Don''t settle for stock-grade hardware when your safety and performance are on the line.

These 5/8-inch diameter link pins are essential for anyone upgrading to aftermarket front trailing arms that feature thicker mounting bosses. Standard stock pins are simply too short to properly engage the threads and provide the necessary clamping force when used with beefier, boxed, or tubular arms. This 4-pack gives you a complete set for both the upper and lower arms on both sides of the vehicle, ensuring a uniform and rock-solid front-end setup. The 116.7mm length is precision-machined to provide the clearance needed for the extra material found on performance arms, preventing the binding and premature wear that occurs with inferior hardware. When your steering geometry and suspension reliability are at stake, upgrading to chromoly hardware is the smartest investment you can make to ensure your VW''s front end remains tight and responsive through the roughest terrain.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle (Standard): 1950 through 1965 (King and Link Pin models)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1965
• VW Bus / Transporter: Early models utilizing King and Link Pin front ends
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All custom applications using King Pin style front beams
• Aftermarket Arms: Required for 2x2.5, 3x3, and 4x4 extended front trailing arms
• Baja Bugs: Specifically for off-road reinforced front suspension setups

SPECS

• Material: High-Grade 4130 Chromoly Steel
• Diameter: 5/8 Inch (Standard King Pin spindle fitment)
• Total Length: 116.7mm (Extra long for aftermarket arms)
• Quantity: Pack of 4 Pins (Complete front end set)
• Finish: Precision Machined Raw Steel
• Compatibility: Designed for use with aftermarket widened trailing arms
• Part Number: AC405055 / EMPI 16-2101

PRO TIPS

1. Mastering the Shim Stack for Perfect Geometry

When installing these chromoly link pins, the most critical step is calculating your shim stack correctly. In a King and Link Pin front end, the shims do not just take up space; they dictate your camber and ensure the spindle is centered within the trailing arm. Because these pins are designed for aftermarket arms, the "standard" shim count from your factory manual may no longer apply. You must ensure that you have a total of 10 shims per link pin (8 for some configurations, but usually 10 for the assembly). Always check for binding by rotating the spindle through its full range of motion before tightening the pinch bolts. If it feels tight or "notchy," you likely have an incorrect shim distribution, which will lead to rapid wear of the link pin bushings.

2. Lubrication and Initial Break-In

Chromoly is incredibly strong, but it is also susceptible to friction-related heat if not lubricated properly during the initial assembly. Before sliding these pins through the bushings, coat them thoroughly with a high-quality Molybdenum Disulfide (Moly) grease. This type of grease is specifically designed for high-pressure, low-speed oscillation environments like VW link pins. Once the vehicle is back on the ground, grease the fittings until you see fresh grease purging from the seals. We recommend re-greasing your front end after the first 50 miles of off-road use to ensure any air pockets in the bushings are filled and the pins are fully seated.

3. Torque and Hardware Inspection

Because these pins are longer to accommodate thicker aftermarket arms, you must ensure that your link pin bolts (the pinch bolts) are in perfect condition. Never reuse old, stretched, or Grade-5 hardware on a chromoly link pin setup. We recommend using Grade-8 hardware for the pinch bolts to match the strength of the chromoly. Torque the link pin nuts to the manufacturer''s specifications, usually around 35-40 ft-lbs for standard setups, but always verify based on your specific arm manufacturer''s requirements. Periodically check the "slop" in your front end by jacked up the car and rocking the wheel vertically; if you feel movement, it is time to inspect the link pin shims and bushings for wear.