Disc Brake Rotor, 4 On 130mm, Long Spline Swing & IRS

OVERVIEW

Upgrade your vintage Volkswagen''s stopping power with the EMPI Rear Disc Brake Rotor, specifically engineered for those running the classic 4 on 130mm lug pattern. Whether you are navigating tight city streets or pushing your rail through the dunes, the transition from antiquated drum brakes to a modern disc setup is the single most important safety modification you can make. This rotor is the cornerstone of our high-performance economy brake kits, offering a massive leap in heat dissipation and fade resistance compared to stock components. Crafted from high-grade cast steel and machined to exacting tolerances, this rotor ensures a true surface for your brake pads, resulting in a firm, responsive pedal feel and significantly shorter stopping distances. By maintaining the factory 4-lug bolt pattern, you can keep your favorite late-model wheels while enjoying the mechanical advantages of disc technology.

The "Long Spline" design of this rotor is critical for proper fitment on 1968 and later IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) transaxles, as well as specific long-spline swing axle configurations. In the world of air-cooled VWs, precision is everything, and a loose or mismatched hub can lead to catastrophic spline failure. This EMPI rotor features a deep 4-1/8 inch offset to ensure proper caliper alignment and maximum structural integrity under heavy braking loads. As a master specialist at Appletree Auto, I have seen countless enthusiasts struggle with mismatched brake components; this rotor eliminates the guesswork by providing an OEM-style fit with aftermarket performance. It is designed to handle the rigors of daily driving and the harsh environments of off-road racing, making it a versatile choice for Beetles, Ghias, and custom sand rails alike.

FITMENT

This rotor is designed for rear applications on the following Volkswagen models and custom configurations:

• VW Beetle (Sedan & Convertible): 1968 through 1977 (IRS models).
• VW Super Beetle: 1971 through 1979.
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1968 through 1974.
• Custom Applications: Fits most Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Baja Bugs utilizing long-spline rear axles and a 4 on 130mm wheel bolt pattern.
• Note: Specifically designed for "Long Spline" axles. If you are using pre-1968 short-spline axles, a spacer or different rotor may be required.

SPECS

• Product Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: AC501914
• OEM Reference: 113-615-601
• Bolt Pattern: 4 on 130mm (Standard late VW Beetle/Ghia).
• Lug Hole Thread: Machined for 14mm lug bolts or studs.
• Rotor Diameter: 11 Inches (Approx. 280mm) for maximum leverage.
• Total Depth: 4-1/8 Inches (Offset measurement).
• Material: High-tensile strength cast steel for superior durability.
• Spline Type: Long Spline (Late model style).
• Weight: Approximately 16.35 lbs per unit.

PRO TIPS

1. The "Clean Surface" Rule for New Rotors

Every new EMPI rotor comes coated in a thin layer of packing oil or cosmoline to prevent rust during shipping and storage. If you install these and hit the road without cleaning them, you will instantly glaze your new brake pads, ruining their friction coefficient and causing "brake squeal." Before mounting, use a high-quality aerosol brake cleaner and a lint-free rag to thoroughly scrub both sides of the friction surface. Ensure no oily residue remains. For the best "bite," some builders even give the surface a very light scuff with 120-grit sandpaper to help the new pads bed in faster.

2. Achieve the Proper Axle Nut Torque

The rear axle nut on a Volkswagen is one of the most critical torque points on the entire vehicle. Because this rotor slides over the splines, it relies on the clamping force of the axle nut to stay seated. You must torque the rear 36mm axle nut to a minimum of 217 ft-lbs. If the nut is even slightly loose, the rotor will "chatter" against the splines, eventually stripping them out and leaving you stranded. Always use a new cotter pin and check the torque again after your first 100 miles of driving to ensure everything has settled into place correctly.

3. Verify Spline Length Before Installation

It is a common mistake in the VW world to confuse "Short Spline" and "Long Spline" setups. This rotor is strictly for Long Spline axles. If you try to fit this on a short-spline axle (typically found on 1966 and earlier cars), the axle nut will bottom out before it actually clamps the rotor hub against the bearing housing. This creates a dangerous gap. Always measure your axle protruding through the hub; if the splines are recessed too far into the rotor, you may need a specialized spacer. Doing a "dry fit" without the caliper first allows you to see exactly how much thread engagement you have on your axle nut.