Cv Joint Race, for Type 1 Cv With 5/8 Balls, Each

OVERVIEW

When it comes to maintaining the drivetrain of your air-cooled Volkswagen, the internal components of your CV joints are often the most overlooked yet critical pieces of the puzzle. This EMPI CV Joint Race is engineered specifically for Type 1 CV joints utilizing 5/8-inch balls, providing a precision-fit replacement for worn or damaged internal races. Whether you are refreshing the rear end of a daily-driven Super Beetle or building a rugged transaxle for a weekend sand rail, this race ensures that torque is transferred smoothly from the transaxle to the wheels. Manufactured from high-grade, hardened steel, this component is designed to withstand the high-frequency oscillations and intense heat generated during aggressive driving. By replacing only the race when the outer housing and cage remain within spec, you can save significantly on maintenance costs while restoring the structural integrity of your IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) system.

Precision is the hallmark of a long-lasting CV assembly, and this EMPI race delivers exactly that with its exacting tolerances and superior surface finish. A pitted or scarred race is the primary culprit behind the dreaded clicking sound heard during acceleration or cornering, and ignoring these signs often leads to catastrophic axle failure. This race is meticulously heat-treated to resist galling and premature wear, making it a favorite among off-road enthusiasts who subject their Type 1 drivetrains to extreme angles and heavy shock loads. It is compatible with standard 33-spline Type 1 axles, making it a versatile choice for a wide array of air-cooled applications. When you choose this EMPI CV race, you are investing in a part that has been a staple in the VW community for decades, trusted for its reliability in both street performance and demanding off-road environments.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle (Standard & Super): 1968-1979 (IRS Models)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1968-1974 (IRS Models)
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1968-1973
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973-1974
• Custom Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All models utilizing Type 1 IRS transaxles and axles
• Meyers Manx & Clones: All IRS-equipped versions

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 16-2609-0
• Application: Type 1 CV Joint (Inner or Outer)
• Ball Bearing Compatibility: 5/8-Inch Diameter Balls
• Internal Spline Count: 33 Splines
• Material: Hardened High-Carbon Steel
• Finish: Precision Ground and Heat Treated
• Quantity: Sold Individually (Each)
• Compatibility: Works with standard Type 1 CV cages and housings

PRO TIPS

1. Master the Art of Proper Lubrication

When installing a new CV race, the choice of grease is just as important as the part itself. Always use a high-quality, high-moly (Molybdenum Disulfide) CV joint grease. Standard chassis grease will not hold up to the extreme pressures and temperatures found inside a CV joint. Before assembly, "massage" the grease into the race and the cage to ensure every surface is coated before the first rotation. This prevents "dry starts" which can cause micro-scarring on the hardened surface of your new race within the first few miles of driving. Remember, a CV joint doesn''t just spin; it slides and oscillates, making high-pressure additives essential for longevity.

2. Check for Sympathetic Wear

If you are replacing a race because of pitting or heat discoloration, it is vital to inspect the 5/8-inch balls and the CV cage simultaneously. In many cases, if the race is damaged, the balls have also lost their perfect sphericity or have developed flat spots. We strongly recommend inspecting the inner windows of the cage for cracks or "egging" out. If you install a brand-new race with worn balls or a sloppy cage, the vibration will return quickly, and the new race will fail prematurely. For the best results, if the race shows significant wear, consider replacing the balls and grease at the same time to ensure a tight, factory-spec tolerance.

3. Mind the Orientation and "Clocking"

One of the most common mistakes during CV assembly is installing the race or the cage backward. The Type 1 CV race often has a specific offset or a machined shoulder. If you install it upside down, the joint will bind as soon as the suspension cycles, which can snap an axle or destroy the transaxle drive flange. Before taking your old joint apart, use a paint pen to mark the orientation of the race relative to the cage. When reassembling, ensure the wide lands of the race are aligned with the narrow lands of the housing. This "clocking" is what allows the joint to achieve its maximum operating angle without binding or locking up.