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

OVERVIEW

Upgrading your classic Volkswagen''s stopping power is the single most important safety improvement you can make, and the EMPI Rear Disc Brake Kit with Emergency Brake is the gold standard for vintage VW enthusiasts. Specifically engineered for short-spline swing axle applications, this kit eliminates the frequent adjustments and fading performance associated with aging factory drum brakes. By transitioning to a disc setup, you gain consistent, reliable braking force that remains stable even under high-heat conditions or spirited driving. This kit is designed for the purist who refuses to compromise on safety or street legality, as it includes a fully integrated emergency brake mechanism that allows you to retain your handbrake functionality while enjoying modern stopping technology. Whether you are navigating heavy modern traffic or cruising down a coastal highway, the confidence provided by this 4x130mm lug pattern kit is unmatched.

The engineering behind this EMPI kit focuses on a seamless installation and long-term durability. The rotors are precision-machined to ensure a perfect balance, while the heavy-duty calipers provide the clamping force necessary to bring your Type 1 to a halt with precision. Because this is a "short spline" kit, it is the definitive solution for early swing axle transaxles, ensuring that the rotor offsets and splined hubs align perfectly with your existing suspension geometry. The 4 on 130mm bolt pattern is the traditional VW 4-lug standard, making it compatible with a massive variety of stock and aftermarket wheels. From the high-quality mounting brackets to the included specialized emergency brake cables, every component in this kit has been curated by EMPI to provide a comprehensive, bolt-on solution that transforms your vintage ride''s performance from 1960s technology to modern-day standards.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle (Type 1): 1958 through 1967 (Swing Axle Models)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1958 through 1967 (Swing Axle Models)
• Chassis Type: Swing Axle only (Does not fit IRS)
• Axle Configuration: Short Spline axles only
• Wheel Bolt Pattern: 4 on 130mm (Standard VW 4-Lug)

SPECS

• Rotor Type: Solid cast-iron precision-surfaced rotors
• Bolt Pattern: 4 x 130mm (M14-1.5 threaded holes)
• Spline Depth: Short Spline (Designed for pre-1968 swing axle lengths)
• Caliper Style: Single-piston floating calipers with integrated mechanical e-brake
• Brake Pads: High-friction ceramic-composite pads included
• Bracket Material: Heavy-duty plate steel with corrosion-resistant coating
• Cables: Custom-length emergency brake cables included for Type 1 fitment
• Hardware: Grade 8 or higher mounting hardware included
• Finish: Natural machined rotor finish with zinc-plated or painted components

PRO TIPS

1. Master Cylinder Compatibility and Pressure Requirements

When upgrading from rear drums to rear discs, it is highly recommended to upgrade to a dual-circuit master cylinder if your car is still running an early single-circuit style. Disc brakes require a different volume of fluid displacement compared to drum wheel cylinders. Additionally, you should check your master cylinder to see if it has internal residual pressure valves. While drum brakes often require a 10lb residual valve to keep the shoes close to the drum, disc brakes should generally run with a 2lb valve or no valve at all to prevent the pads from dragging on the rotors and causing premature wear or overheating. Always bench-bleed your master cylinder before final installation to ensure no air is trapped in the highest point of the hydraulic system.

2. The Importance of Proper Axle Nut Torque

The rear axle nut on a swing axle Volkswagen is responsible for more than just keeping the wheel on; it provides the clamping force that keeps the rotor hub locked onto the axle splines. When installing this kit, you must torque the 36mm rear axle nut to a minimum of 217 ft-lbs, though many builders prefer to go as high as 250-300 ft-lbs to ensure zero play. If this nut is under-torqued, the splines on your brand-new rotors will "chatter" against the axle, eventually stripping both the rotor and the axle itself. Always use a new cotter pin and never back off the nut to align the cotter pin holeonly tighten further until the holes align perfectly.

3. E-Brake Adjustment and Cable Routing

To get the best performance out of your new emergency brake, ensure that the calipers are fully bled and the foot brake is firm before you attempt to adjust the handbrake cables. The mechanical lever on the caliper needs to be in its fully relaxed position when the handbrake handle is down. When routing the new cables provided in the kit, avoid sharp bends or contact with moving suspension components or the exhaust system. Use a small amount of high-temp grease on the cable ends where they hook into the caliper lever to prevent binding. Proper adjustment should result in the emergency brake holding the car firmly at 3 to 5 clicks of the handle, ensuring the pads are not dragging when the handle is released.