EMPI Dish Wheels 5.5 Wide, Fits 5 on 205mm

OVERVIEW

Transform the stance and aesthetic of your classic air-cooled Volkswagen with the iconic EMPI Dish Wheel set. These wheels are a direct tribute to the golden era of Cal-Look styling, offering a clean, deep-dish profile that instantly upgrades the presence of any vintage Beetle, Karmann Ghia, or Bus. Crafted from high-quality aluminum alloy, these wheels provide a significant weight reduction over traditional steel wheels, which translates to improved handling and reduced unsprung weight. Whether you are aiming for a period-correct restoration or a custom street machine, the EMPI Dish wheel delivers a timeless look that bridges the gap between vintage charm and modern manufacturing precision. At Appletree Automotive, we understand that the right set of rollers can make or break a build, and this set of four wheels provides a complete, out-of-the-box solution to elevate your ride.

Engineering meets classic design in these 5.5-inch wide wheels, specifically engineered for the "Wide 5" (5 on 205mm) bolt pattern. The 4-inch backspacing is optimized to fill out the wheel wells perfectly, providing a wider track for better stability without causing the clearance headaches often associated with wider aftermarket rims. Each wheel comes complete with a sleek center cap and a high-quality valve stem, ensuring you have the essential hardware needed for a professional installation. The polished finish catches the light beautifully, highlighting the smooth "dish" contours that have made this wheel a favorite among VW enthusiasts for decades. Don''t settle for mediocre steelies when you can bolt on a piece of Volkswagen performance history that is built to last and designed to turn heads at every stoplight and car show.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle: 1949 through 1966 (Standard and Deluxe models)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1966
• VW Bus / Type 2: 1950 through 1970 (Single Cab, Double Cab, and Microbus)
• VW Type 3: 1961 through 1965 (Squareback, Fastback, and Notchback)
• VW Thing / Type 181: All years utilizing the 5x205mm drum or disc setup
• Meyers Manx & Dune Buggies: Any kit car utilizing early VW 5-lug swing axle or IRS transaxles

SPECS

• Quantity: Complete Set of 4 Wheels
• Diameter: 15 Inches
• Width: 5.5 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide 5)
• Back Spacing: 4 Inches
• Lug Seat: 60 Degree Taper (Requires 12mm Tapered Lugs)
• Material: High-Strength Aluminum Alloy
• Finish: Polished Aluminum
• Center Cap: Included (Part Number 00-9720-0)
• Valve Stems: Included
• Recommended Lug Hardware: Part Numbers 00-9537-0 (Studs) & 00-9516-0 (Nuts)

PRO TIPS

1. Always Use the Correct Lug Seating

One of the most common mistakes we see in the shop is the use of factory VW lug bolts on aftermarket alloy wheels. Original equipment VW steel wheels use a "radius" or "ball" seat lug, but these EMPI Dish wheels require a 60-degree "tapered" (cone) seat. Using the wrong lug hardware will prevent the wheel from centering properly and can lead to the lugs backing out or damaging the aluminum wheel seat. We highly recommend installing a high-quality wheel stud kit (00-9537-0) and matching tapered nuts (00-9516-0) to ensure a secure, race-ready fitment that won''t let you down on the highway.

2. Check Clearance on Lowered Front Ends

While the 5.5-inch width and 4-inch backspacing are designed to fit most stock applications, if you are running a narrowed beam or a significantly lowered front end, you must check for tire-to-fender and tire-to-tie-rod clearance. Because these wheels sit slightly further outboard than stock 4-inch wide steelies, we recommend pairing them with a 145/80 or 165/80 tire on the front of Beetles to maintain a slim profile and prevent rubbing during tight turns. Always perform a "dry fit" of the wheel on your spindle before mounting tires to verify there is no interference with brake calipers or steering components.

3. Maintain That Mirror Finish

Since these wheels are made of polished aluminum rather than chrome-plated steel, they require specific care to keep them looking their best. Avoid using harsh acid-based wheel cleaners which can cloud or "burn" the polished surface. Instead, use a pH-neutral soap for regular washing. To maintain the deep shine, treat the wheels with a high-quality aluminum polish and a microfiber towel twice a year. If you live in a coastal area or a region where road salt is used, applying a ceramic coating or a dedicated wheel sealant can provide an extra layer of protection against oxidation, keeping your EMPI Dish wheels looking brand new for years to come.