EMPI Universal Door Puller

OVERVIEW

Reignite the classic vintage aesthetic of your air-cooled interior with the EMPI Universal Door Puller pair. These aren''t just functional hardware pieces; they are a direct callback to the golden era of California Look Volkswagens and custom dune buggies. Designed with a high-luster chrome finish, these pull handles provide a sleek, polished look that far surpasses the flimsy vinyl straps or weathered plastic armrests found in many aging interiors. The genius of the EMPI design lies in its spring-loaded mechanism, which ensures the handle snaps back and stays snug against the door panel when not in use. This prevents annoying rattles during high-speed desert runs or highway cruising and keeps your cabin looking tidy and professional. Whether you are finishing a concourse-level restoration or building a rugged sand rail from the ground up, these door pullers offer the tactile reliability and period-correct style that only a legendary name like EMPI can deliver.

Versatility is the core strength of the EMPI 15-2080-0 kit. While they are a staple in the VW community, their universal nature makes them an excellent choice for street rods, kit cars, and custom off-road builds where space is at a premium. Unlike bulky stock armrests that can interfere with aftermarket bucket seats or roll cages, these slim-profile chrome pulls provide a sturdy grip point without sacrificing valuable cockpit room. The installation process is straightforward, allowing for custom placement on virtually any flat door surface. Sold as a pair, these handles are engineered to withstand the repeated stress of closing heavy steel doors while maintaining their mirror-like finish. When you choose EMPI parts from Appletree Auto, you are investing in a legacy of air-cooled excellence that has defined the scene for decades, ensuring your project looks as good as it performs.

FITMENT

These door pullers are universal by design, but they are most commonly utilized in the following air-cooled and custom applications:

• VW Beetle & Super Beetle: All years and models (1946-1979).
• VW Karmann Ghia: All years (1955-1974).
• VW Bus / Type 2: Fits Transporter, Kombi, and Microbus front doors.
• VW Type 3: Squareback, Fastback, and Notchback models.
• VW Thing (Type 181): Ideal for rugged interior upgrades.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Perfect for fiberglass bodies like the Meyers Manx or tube-chassis rails.
• Custom Projects: Street rods, kit cars, and vintage trucks with custom door panels.

SPECS

• Part Number: 15-2080-0
• Material: Heavy-duty cast metal construction.
• Finish: Triple-process high-luster Chrome plating.
• Mechanism: Internal heavy-duty tension spring for flush-fit retention.
• Quantity: Sold as a complete pair (Left and Right).
• Mounting Style: Surface mount with two-bolt pattern (Hardware sold separately depending on panel thickness).
• Handle Type: Folding/Collapsible pull handle.
• Application: Universal interior door pull or assist handle.

PRO TIPS

1. Reinforce Your Custom Door Panels

If you are mounting these EMPI door pullers to aftermarket ABS plastic or thin wood door panels, it is vital to use a backing plate or large fender washers on the backside of the panel. Because these handles are used to pull the full weight of the door shut, the concentrated stress can eventually crack or pull through thin upholstery board. A small strip of aluminum or steel hidden behind the panel will distribute that load across a larger surface area, ensuring your handles stay rock-solid for years of use without damaging your custom interior work.

2. Perfect Alignment and Template Usage

Since these are universal handles, they don''t always align with factory holes in your door skin. To get a professional look, we recommend creating a cardboard template of the mounting base first. Tape the template to your door panel and sit in the driver''s seat to test the ergonomics before drilling. Ensure the handle is level with the window sill or follow the natural body line of the car. Once you are satisfied with the position, use a center punch to mark your holes to prevent the drill bit from walking and scratching that beautiful new chrome finish.

3. Chrome Maintenance in Harsh Environments

To keep these handles looking like jewelry, especially in coastal areas or humid climates, you should treat them with a high-quality carnauba wax or a dedicated chrome sealant during your regular detailing routine. While the EMPI chrome plating is durable, the oils from your hands can be acidic and may lead to micro-pitting over time if left uncleaned. A quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth after a weekend of driving will keep the luster deep and prevent the environmental oxidation that often plagues vintage-style interior brightwork.