Disc Brake Kit, 4 On 130mm, With E-Brake, Long Spline

OVERVIEW

Upgrade your late-model Beetle''s stopping performance with the EMPI Rear Disc Brake Kit, specifically engineered for 1973 to 1979 IRS Type 1 models. For decades, the air-cooled community has dealt with the inherent limitations of aging drum brakes, which are notorious for heat soak, brake fade, and inconsistent pedal feel during modern driving conditions. This comprehensive conversion kit replaces those heavy, inefficient drums with precision-engineered rotors and high-clamping calipers. By making the switch to disc brakes, you benefit from superior heat dissipation and a much more linear braking response, ensuring that whether you are navigating heavy city traffic or enjoying a spirited drive on a winding backroad, your Volkswagen stops with modern-day authority and safety.

What truly distinguishes this EMPI kit is the seamless integration of a fully functional emergency brake system, making it the ideal choice for street-legal restorations and daily drivers. Many performance kits on the market require you to sacrifice your parking brake, but this kit includes specialized calipers with built-in e-brake levers and the correct cables for the 1973-1979 chassis. Designed specifically for "long spline" IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) applications, this kit provides a straightforward bolt-on installation with all necessary mounting brackets and hardware included. It is the ultimate solution for the VW enthusiast who demands the performance of a modern braking system without losing the essential convenience and safety of a functional handbrake behind their classic 4x130mm wheels.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle (Type 1): 1973 - 1979 (IRS Models Only)
• Axle Configuration: IRS (Independent Rear Suspension)
• Spline Type: Long Spline
• Lug Pattern: 4 on 130mm (Late VW Pattern)

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 22-2871-0
• Rotor Material: High-Quality Cast Iron, Precision Machined
• Bolt Pattern: 4 x 130mm
• Caliper Type: Single-Piston Floating Caliper with Integrated E-Brake
• Axle Fitment: Long Spline IRS
• Included Components: 2x Brake Rotors, 2x Calipers, Semi-Metallic Brake Pads, Mounting Brackets, E-Brake Cables, and Grade 8 Mounting Hardware
• Finish: Natural Machined Rotor Surface with Zinc-Plated Hardware

PRO TIPS

1. Upgrade Your Master Cylinder for Optimal Fluid Displacement

When transitioning from a rear drum setup to a disc brake system, the volume of fluid required to move the caliper pistons is generally higher than what is needed for wheel cylinders. To prevent a "mushy" or low pedal, we strongly recommend upgrading to a 20.6mm or larger dual-circuit master cylinder. Additionally, ensure you are not using a residual pressure valve on the rear line of a disc brake setup, as this can cause the pads to drag and overheat the rotors. A properly matched master cylinder ensures that your new EMPI kit provides the firm, immediate bite you expect from a performance upgrade.

2. Master the Bleeding Process

Air-cooled Volkswagens can be notoriously stubborn when it comes to purging air from the brake lines, especially after a full rear-end conversion. Always follow the proper bleeding sequence: start with the passenger side rear (the furthest point from the master cylinder), then the driver''s side rear, followed by the passenger front, and finally the driver''s front. We highly suggest using a pressure bleeder rather than the "pump and hold" method to ensure a constant flow of fluid that pushes all micro-bubbles out of the new calipers. Use high-quality DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid and never reuse old fluid that has been sitting in an open container.

3. Proper Cable Routing and Lever Adjustment

The 1973-1979 IRS chassis requires specific cable lengths, which are included in this kit. During installation, it is critical to route the e-brake cables so they have smooth, sweeping bends without any sharp kinks that could cause the inner cable to bind. Before finalizing the adjustment at the handle, ensure the levers on the calipers are fully retracting to the "off" position. Lubricate the cable ends and the pivot points on the caliper levers with a high-temp synthetic grease. This prevents the parking brake from dragging, which would otherwise lead to premature pad wear and excessive heat buildup during normal driving.