Disc Brake Rotor, 5 On 4-3/4 Chevy, Short Spline

OVERVIEW

Upgrading your air-cooled Volkswagen''s braking system is one of the most critical modifications you can make, especially when you are adding more horsepower or running larger wheels that require a modern bolt pattern. This EMPI rear disc brake rotor is engineered to provide superior stopping power and heat dissipation compared to traditional stock drum setups. Designed for maximum versatility, this rotor features a dual-drilled bolt pattern, allowing you to run either the classic 5x130 Porsche pattern or the popular 5x4.75-inch Chevy pattern. Whether you are building a street-ready Cal-Look Bug, a rugged Baja, or a custom sand rail, this rotor offers the reliability and precision required for high-performance driving. By converting to disc brakes, you significantly reduce brake fade and improve pedal feel, ensuring your VW stops as reliably as it accelerates.

Construction quality is paramount when it comes to rotating assembly components, and this EMPI rotor is manufactured to meet the rigorous demands of the VW enthusiast. It is cast from high-grade materials to withstand the intense thermal cycling associated with heavy braking. This specific model is designed for short spline applications, which are standard on early swing axle and IRS transaxles. However, its versatile design allows it to be adapted to long spline axles with the addition of a simple spacer, making it a flexible choice for various rear-end configurations. The precision machining of the internal splines ensures a snug, chatter-free fit on your axle, preventing premature wear and ensuring efficient torque transfer. When you choose this rotor from Appletree Automotive, you are investing in a component that perfectly balances classic VW heritage with modern braking technology.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1954-1977 (Swing Axle or IRS with appropriate conversions)
• Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia: 1956-1974
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: 1973-1974
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All models utilizing VW Type 1 Swing Axle or IRS rear suspension
• Custom Applications: Fits short spline axles (approx. 1967 and earlier swing axle) and can be adapted to 1968+ long spline axles with spacers

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 22-2843-7
• Rotor Diameter: 11 Inches
• Rotor Depth: 3-1/2 Inches
• Bolt Pattern 1: 5 on 4-3/4 Inches (Chevy)
• Bolt Pattern 2: 5 on 130mm (Porsche)
• Lug Thread Requirements: 12mm for Chevy pattern / 14mm for Porsche pattern
• Spline Type: Short Spline
• Weight: 18.05 lbs
• Material: High-strength cast iron
• Sold As: Individually (Each)

PRO TIPS

1. Lug Nut and Pattern Verification

Because this rotor is double-drilled, it is absolutely essential to verify which bolt pattern your wheels use before installation. If you are running Chevy-style wheels (5x4.75), you must use 12mm lug studs or bolts. If you are running Porsche-style wheels (5x130), you must use 14mm hardware. Never attempt to "force" a lug nut into the wrong hole, as the taper and thread pitch are specific to the drilling. We highly recommend using high-quality hardened studs for any off-road or high-performance street application to ensure the wheel remains securely centered on the rotor face.

2. Mastering the Short Spline to Long Spline Conversion

This rotor is natively designed for "short spline" axles, which are typically found on pre-1968 swing axle Volkswagens. However, many builders prefer the later "long spline" axles for their strength. If you are installing this rotor on a long spline axle (common on 1968 and later Beetle or IRS setups), you must use a rotor spacer. Failure to use a spacer on a long spline axle will prevent the axle nut from seating correctly against the rotor hub, leading to massive play in the rear end, destroyed splines, and potential wheel loss. Always check your axle length before finalizing your order.

3. Proper Axle Nut Torque and Lubrication

When installing these rotors, always apply a small amount of high-quality anti-seize to the axle splines to prevent "galling" or future seizing. Once the rotor is seated, the rear axle nut must be torqued to a minimum of 217 ft-lbs (check your specific shop manual for exact specs based on your year). A loose axle nut is the number one cause of stripped splines on new rotors. After the first 50 miles of driving, we recommend re-checking the torque on the axle nut and the lug nuts to account for any initial settling of the components.