Disc Brake Rotors, Blanks, Fits Short Spline Swing Axle

OVERVIEW

When you are building a custom air-cooled machine, whether it is a street-prowling Cal-Look Beetle or a rugged sand rail, the ability to choose your own wheel bolt pattern is a game changer. These EMPI blank disc brake rotors are the ultimate solution for builders who refuse to be limited by standard VW 4-lug or 5-lug configurations. By starting with a blank canvas, you have the freedom to precision-drill for Porsche 5x130, Chevy 5x4.75, or even Ford 5x4.5 bolt patterns. Engineered with high-quality casting and a thick friction surface, these rotors provide the thermal stability and stopping power required when you have upgraded your horsepower and need a braking system that can keep up with modern traffic or off-road demands.

These rotors are specifically designed for the short spline swing axle configuration, which was standard on Volkswagens through 1968. However, their versatility does not stop there; they can be easily adapted to 1968 and later IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) transaxles with the simple addition of a spacer (part number 22-5281-7). This makes them a vital component for enthusiasts who want to maintain the classic look of their vintage rear end while benefiting from the superior heat dissipation and consistent performance of a disc brake setup. Whether you are replacing a worn-out rotor or converting from old-school drum brakes, these blanks offer the durability and customization potential that professional builders demand from Appletree Automotive.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle: 1950 through 1966 (Short Spline Swing Axle)
• VW Beetle: 1967 through 1968 (Verify spline length; fits short spline applications)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1966
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961 through 1965
• Custom Applications: Fits most Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes using a VW Swing Axle transaxle.
• IRS Conversion: Can be used on 1968-later IRS models when paired with spacer 22-5281-7.

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 22-2844-B
• Rotor Type: Solid Disc, Blank (Undrilled)
• Rotor Diameter: 11 Inches
• Total Depth: 3-1/2 Inches
• Spline Type: Short Spline (Standard for Swing Axle)
• Material: High-grade cast iron for maximum heat absorption
• Finish: Raw machined surface (Requires cleaning before installation)
• Weight: Approximately 17 lbs per rotor

PRO TIPS

Precision Machining is Key

Since these rotors come as blanks, it is absolutely critical that you do not attempt to drill your bolt patterns with a hand drill. For safety and wheel balance, these must be machined using a bridgeport, a dedicated milling machine, or a professional-grade drill press with a rotary table. If the holes are even slightly off-center, you will experience a significant vibration at high speeds that can damage your wheel bearings and suspension components. Always double-check your PCD (Pitch Circle Diameter) measurements before the first bit hits the metal to ensure your custom wheels sit perfectly flush and centered on the hub.

Managing the IRS Transition

If you are planning to use these rotors on a later 1968-and-up IRS transaxle, remember that the "short spline" design of the rotor hub will leave a gap on the longer IRS axle stub. You must use the specific spacer (22-5281-7) to take up this slack. Failure to use the spacer will prevent the axle nut from properly clamping the rotor against the bearing carrier. Without that clamping force, the rotor will "float" on the splines, which will quickly strip the splines out of the rotor and potentially ruin your axle stubs. It is a small part that makes a massive difference in the safety and longevity of your rear brake system.

Don''t Forget the Cleaning and Seating Process

Like most raw cast iron brake components, these rotors are shipped with a thin coat of shipping oil or cosmoline to prevent rust while they sit in the warehouse. Before you install your brake pads, you must thoroughly clean the friction surfaces with a high-quality brake cleaner. If you don''t, the oil will contaminate your brake pads, leading to glazed surfaces and significantly reduced stopping power. Additionally, once installed, be sure to follow a proper "bedding-in" procedureperforming several controlled stops from 30 MPH to 5 MPHto transfer a layer of pad material to the rotor, which ensures smooth, squeak-free braking for miles to come.