Front Disc Brake Kit, for Bus 68-69

Experience Modern Stopping Power with the EMPI Front Disc Brake Kit

Upgrading your early Bay Window Bus from outdated factory drum brakes to a modern disc setup is one of the single most important safety improvements any VW enthusiast can make. The 1968 and 1969 Volkswagen Type 2 was a transitional era for the Bus, still relying on heavy, heat-prone drum components that require frequent manual adjustment and are notorious for "fading" during long descents or heavy traffic situations. This EMPI Front Disc Brake Kit is engineered to eliminate those vintage headaches by providing consistent, reliable, and high-performance braking that brings your classic transporter into the modern age. Whether you are hauling a full Westfalia camper interior through the mountains or navigating daily city traffic, the increased clamping force and superior heat dissipation of this kit ensure that you stop straight and true every single time.

This comprehensive conversion kit is specifically tailored for the unique spindle configuration found on 1968 through 1969 (and some early 1970) models, offering a robust solution that replaces the entire hub and drum assembly. The kit comes loaded with heavy-duty calipers, premium rotors, and a complete set of bearings and seals, ensuring that you aren''t just upgrading the brakes, but also refreshing the critical rotating components of your front end. By moving to a disc system, you benefit from a self-adjusting design that maintains optimal pedal feel throughout the life of the brake pads. It is important to note that this kit utilizes the 5x112mm lug pattern, which was standard on later Buses, allowing for better wheel compatibility while significantly improving the vehicle''s safety profile. Please be aware that this kit is designed for use with stock spindles and is not compatible with EMPI drop spindles (Part # 22-2948).

Vehicle Fitment and Compatibility

• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus: 1968
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus: 1969
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus: 1970 (Early models with original 1968-69 style spindles)
• Note: Not compatible with EMPI dropped spindles part number 22-2948.
• Bolt Pattern: 5x112mm (Late Bus Lug Pattern).

Technical Product Specifications

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 22-2940-0
• Brake Type: Hydraulic Disc Conversion
• Caliper Style: Floating Single Piston (Heavy Duty)
• Rotor Style: Solid Surface (Standard Diameter)
• Lug Pattern: 5x112mm with 14mm Threaded Holes
• Bearings Included: High-quality inner and outer wheel bearings
• Hardware Included: Caliper mounting brackets, seals, and necessary installation fasteners
• Track Width: May increase track width slightly (approx. 1/4 inch per side depending on wheel offset)
• Instruction Reference: 99-4439-0

Professional Installation Tips from the Appletree Workshop

1. Upgrade Your Master Cylinder for Optimal Pressure

When converting from drums to discs, it is highly recommended to upgrade to a disc-brake-specific master cylinder. Drum brake master cylinders often have residual pressure valves designed to keep the shoes close to the drum. If you use a drum master cylinder with disc calipers, the brakes may "drag," leading to excessive heat and premature pad wear. Using a master cylinder designed for a 1971 or later Bus ensures the correct fluid volume and pressure for the new calipers, providing a firm, responsive pedal that isn''t "mushy."

2. Proper Bearing Packing is Non-Negotiable

Don''t rush the bearing installation. While it is tempting to simply smear grease on the outside of the new bearings, you must "pack" them thoroughly. Force high-quality wheel bearing grease into the cage until it squeezes out the other side. This ensures that the rollers are lubricated from the moment the wheel starts spinning. Additionally, always install a new grease seal and check that the spindle is free of burrs or old scoring before sliding the new hub and rotor assembly into place. A properly lubricated front end will last for decades.

3. Check Your Wheel Clearance and Lug Bolt Length

Since this kit converts your 1968-69 Bus to the later 5x112mm bolt pattern, you will need wheels that match this pattern. Furthermore, because disc brake calipers take up more internal space than drums, you must verify that your wheels provide enough "backspace" clearance so the inner rim or spokes don''t rub against the caliper body. Always hand-rotate the wheel after installation before lowering the vehicle to the ground. Finally, ensure your lug bolts have the correct "reach" and seat type (ball seat vs. cone seat) for your specific wheels to prevent them from loosening or bottoming out.