Front Brake Hose, Super Beetle 71-79

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the safety and performance of your classic VW, nothing is more critical than the integrity of your braking system. These premium EMPI front brake hoses are engineered specifically for the unique MacPherson strut suspension found on 1971 through 1979 Super Beetles. Over decades of service, original rubber lines undergo a process of internal degradation where the inner liner swells shut, often acting as a one-way check valve that causes your calipers to stick or your brakes to drag. Replacing your aged, cracked, or "gummed up" flexible lines with these high-quality units restores the hydraulic pressure balance, ensuring that every foot-pound of pressure you apply to the pedal translates directly into stopping power at the wheels. Don''t compromise on safety by running 50-year-old rubber when a fresh set of hoses can provide the firm, responsive pedal feel your Super Beetle deserves.

As a master air-cooled specialist, I cannot stress enough that these hoses are a vital component of any front-end refresh. Unlike standard Beetles, the Super Beetle''s front suspension undergoes significant travel and articulation, making the flexibility and durability of the brake hose paramount. These hoses feature a robust multi-layer construction designed to withstand the high pressures of the braking system while resisting the environmental hazards of the road, such as oil, grease, and ozone. Each hose is finished with precision-machined 10mm female bubble flare fittings on both ends, ensuring a leak-free seal with your hard lines and calipers. Whether you are performing a concours restoration or maintaining your daily driver, these OEM-style replacements offer the perfect blend of period-correct aesthetics and modern manufacturing reliability.

FITMENT

• VW Super Beetle (Sedan): 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• VW Super Beetle (Convertible): 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• Fits Models: 1302 and 1303 variants
• Position: Front Left or Front Right (Two required per vehicle)

SPECS

• OEM Part Number: 113-611-701E
• Total Length: 355mm (Approximately 14 inches)
• Fitting Type 1: M10x1.0 Female Bubble Flare
• Fitting Type 2: M10x1.0 Female Bubble Flare
• Material: High-density reinforced EPDM rubber
• Finish: Zinc-plated steel end fittings for corrosion resistance
• Application: Front hydraulic brake system

PRO TIPS

1. The Invisible Internal Failure

One of the most common "ghost" problems in a Super Beetle braking system is a car that pulls to one side or has a brake that won''t release. Many owners blame the caliper, but the culprit is often the internal collapse of the brake hose. While the outside of the hose might look perfectly fine, the inner rubber layers delaminate and create a flap that allows fluid to reach the caliper but prevents it from returning to the master cylinder. If you haven''t replaced your hoses in the last 10 years, do it nowit is the cheapest insurance you can buy for your VW''s stopping system.

2. Prevent Hose Twisting During Install

When installing these hoses on your Super Beetle, it is vital to ensure the hose is not "pre-twisted" when you tighten the fittings. A twisted hose will rub against the strut or the tire during sharp turns, leading to premature failure or a dangerous blowout. Always thread the hose into the hard line first, let it hang naturally to find its neutral position, and then secure it into the bracket. After installation, turn the steering wheel from lock to lock to verify that the hose has a smooth, unobstructed arc and does not contact any moving suspension components.

3. Use a Flare Nut Wrench

Never attempt to remove or install brake hoses with a standard open-end wrench. The 10mm fittings on your VW hard lines are made of soft steel and are notorious for rounding off if they have been in place for years. Always use a dedicated 10mm flare nut wrench (line wrench) to break the fittings loose. If the fitting feels seized, apply a high-quality penetrating oil and let it soak for several hours. This simple precaution can save you the massive headache of having to replace a twisted or snapped hard brake line.