Cv Joint Race, for Type 1 with 11/16 Inch Balls, Each

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the drivetrain of your air-cooled Volkswagen, the CV (Constant Velocity) joint is the unsung hero that ensures smooth power delivery from your transaxle to your drive wheels. This EMPI CV joint race is engineered specifically for Type 1 Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) setups that utilize 11/16-inch balls. Whether you are restoring a classic 1970s Beetle for the street or building a rugged sand rail for the dunes, the internal race is a critical wear point that demands precision and durability. This replacement race is manufactured from high-grade, hardened steel to withstand the extreme angularity and torque loads common in performance VW applications. By choosing a high-quality EMPI component, you are investing in the long-term reliability of your drivetrain, preventing the annoying clicking sounds and eventual mechanical failure associated with worn-out CV internals.

Maintaining your CV joints is often overlooked until a failure leaves you stranded on the side of the road or deep in the trail. This hardened CV race is designed to provide a perfect track for the 11/16-inch chrome-moly balls, reducing friction and heat buildup during high-speed operation. Because the race is the heart of the joint, it must maintain a perfect tolerance to prevent slop in the axles. At Appletree Automotive, we understand that the air-cooled community demands parts that can handle more than just a Sunday drive. This race is built to handle the increased stress of lowered street cars or lifted off-roaders, ensuring that your Type 1 drivetrain remains robust. If you are rebuilding your axles and find pitting or galling on your original components, don''t settle for subpar replacements; step up to the strength and precision of EMPI.

FITMENT

This CV joint race is designed for Volkswagen Type 1 IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) applications using standard 11/16-inch balls. Please verify your ball size and spline count before ordering.

• VW Beetle (Standard & Super): 1968 through 1979 (IRS Models)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1968 through 1974 (IRS Models)
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: Sand Rails, Dune Buggies, and Baja Bugs utilizing Type 1 IRS trailing arms and transaxles.

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 16-2607-0
• Application: Type 1 IRS
• Ball Size Compatibility: 11/16 Inch
• Material: Hardened High-Carbon Steel
• Spline Count: 33 Splines (Standard Type 1)
• Finish: Precision Ground and Hardened
• Quantity: Sold Individually (Each)

PRO TIPS

1. Use High-Quality Moly Grease and Plenty of It

When assembling your CV joint with this new race, the choice of lubricant is just as important as the part itself. Always use a high-performance molybdenum disulfide (Moly) grease specifically formulated for CV joints. This grease is designed to handle the high-pressure sliding contact between the balls, the cage, and the race. When packing the joint, ensure you work the grease into the center of the race and around every ball before sliding the boot into place. Proper lubrication is the single most effective way to prevent premature wear and heat-related failure in your drivetrain.

2. Check for Proper Orientation During Assembly

It is a common mistake during CV joint rebuilding to install the race or the cage backward. Note that the race often has a specific orientation regarding the inner splines and the way it seats against the axle circlip. Before you slide the race onto the axle, verify that the wider part of the race is facing the correct direction to allow for maximum angularity without binding. If the joint feels "notchy" or tight after assembly, stop immediately and re-check the orientation of the cage and race. A correctly assembled joint should move smoothly through its entire range of motion by hand.

3. Always Inspect the Axle Splines and Circlips

Before installing your new EMPI race, take a moment to inspect the splines on your axle shafts. Any burrs or mushroomed edges should be carefully cleaned up with a fine file to ensure the new race slides on without excessive force. Furthermore, never reuse old, tired circlips. A weakened circlip can allow the race to move on the shaft, leading to catastrophic failure of the joint. Always use a fresh, high-tension circlip and ensure it is fully seated in the groove of the axle. If you are using Schnorr washers on your CV bolts, ensure they are in good condition to prevent the bolts from backing out under vibration.