Foam Pad, Rear Seat Backrest, Fits Beetle 65-79, Each

OVERVIEW

When it comes to restoring a classic Volkswagen, the foundation of your interior is just as critical as the fabric you choose to cover it. After decades of use, the original horsehair or coconut fiber padding in your Beetle''s rear seat backrest has likely crumbled into a fine dust, leaving your upholstery looking saggy and your passengers feeling the metal springs. This EMPI high-density foam pad is engineered to provide a firm, supportive, and factory-correct profile that breathes new life into your vintage interior. By replacing that degraded organic material with modern, resilient foam, you ensure that your new seat covers fit tight and wrinkle-free, replicating the crisp lines that defined the Volkswagen Beetle when it first rolled off the assembly line. This isn''t just about comfort; it''s about structural integrity and preserving the iconic silhouette of the Type 1 cabin.

Crafted specifically for the 1965 through 1979 model years, this rear seat backrest foam pad is molded to match the exact contours of the late-model Beetle seat frame. Unlike generic foam blocks that require tedious carving and shaping, this unit is ready for installation, significantly reducing the labor involved in a full interior overhaul. Whether you are building a concourse-level restoration or a rugged daily driver, using a high-quality molded foam base prevents the "lumpy" appearance common with subpar padding materials. At Appletree Automotive, we know that a professional-grade upholstery job starts from the inside out, and this EMPI foam pad provides the necessary density to withstand years of use without losing its shape or collapsing under pressure. Give your Beetle the support it deserves and ensure your interior restoration stands the test of time.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Sedan): 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977.
• Volkswagen Super Beetle (Sedan): 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977.
• Volkswagen Beetle (Mexican & Overseas Production): Fits models through 1979 with standard rear bench configurations.
• Note: Specifically designed for the rear seat backrest (the vertical portion of the rear seat).

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-4467-0
• Material: High-density, resilient molded automotive foam.
• Component: Rear Seat Backrest (Upper Pad).
• Quantity: Sold Each.
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 lbs.
• GTIN: 707924327182.
• Application: Direct replacement for original horsehair or early foam padding.
• Color: Natural Foam (typically yellowish or white).

PRO TIPS

1. Prep the Seat Frame for Longevity

Before you even think about placing your new foam pad onto the rear seat frame, take the time to inspect the metal springs and frame rails. Over the last fifty years, moisture often gets trapped under the old padding, leading to surface rust. Use a wire brush to remove any scale and hit the frame with a coat of rust-inhibiting semi-gloss black paint. Not only does this stop further deterioration, but it also prevents rust flakes from staining your new foam or, eventually, your new seat covers. Ensure all the "prongs" or "teeth" on the frame are straight and ready to accept the new materials without tearing the foam during the stretch process.

2. Use a Scrim Layer for a Professional Finish

While this foam pad provides the bulk of the shape, many master upholsterers prefer to add a very thin layer of polyester batting or a "scrim" foam over the top of the molded pad before installing the vinyl or cloth cover. This extra layer acts as a "buffer" that helps the seat cover slide into position more easily and masks any minor imperfections in the foam surface. It also provides that slightly "plush" feel when you first touch the seat, while the high-density EMPI foam underneath provides the actual structural support. Use a light mist of high-tack upholstery spray adhesive to keep the batting from shifting during the final assembly.

3. Manage Foam Compression After Shipping

Because these foam pads are often compressed for shipping to save on bulk, they may appear slightly flattened or misshapen when they first arrive at your door. Don''t panic! Take the foam out of the box and let it sit in a warm room or out in the sun for at least 24 to 48 hours to "relax" and return to its original molded shape. If you encounter a stubborn crease, you can use a handheld clothes steamer to gently warm the area; the moisture and heat will cause the cells in the foam to expand back to their intended dimensions. Never attempt to install the seat covers while the foam is still compressed from the box, as this will result in a loose, baggy fit once the foam eventually expands on its own.