Front Hood Grill, for Beetle 68-77, Super 71-72

OVERVIEW

Elevate the aesthetic appeal of your classic air-cooled Volkswagen with the EMPI Polished Aluminum Front Hood Grill. Designed specifically for late-model Beetles and early Super Beetles, this premium accessory serves as the perfect finishing touch for any restoration or custom build. The area just below the windshield, often referred to as the cowl, is a focal point of the VW front end. Over decades of exposure to the elements, original plastic or stamped steel grills often become brittle, faded, or corroded. Replacing that weathered component with this high-luster polished aluminum unit instantly revitalizes your vehicle''s face, providing a bright, custom look that stands out at car shows and on the open road. At Appletree Automotive, we understand that details matter, and this EMPI grill delivers the precise fit and brilliant finish that VW enthusiasts demand.

Crafted from high-grade aluminum, this hood grill is engineered for durability and longevity. Unlike original equipment that may succumb to rust or sun damage, the aluminum construction offers superior resistance to oxidation, ensuring that your Beetle maintains its showroom shine for years to come. The "custom look" isn''t just about flash; it''s about quality. This grill features a sleek, multi-slat design that allows for optimal airflow into the fresh air intake system while keeping larger debris from entering the cowl area. Whether you are building a period-correct daily driver or a fully customized Cal-Look bug, this EMPI component integrates seamlessly with your existing body lines. It is an affordable, high-impact upgrade that proves you don''t have to spend a fortune to achieve a professional, polished appearance on your vintage Volkswagen.

FITMENT

This front hood grill is designed for the following Volkswagen Type 1 applications:

• Volkswagen Standard Beetle: 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971, 1972 (Flat windshield models only)
• Note: Does not fit 1973-later Super Beetles with the curved windshield and redesigned cowl area.

SPECS

Below are the technical specifications for the EMPI 00-6420-0 Front Hood Grill:

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-6420-0
• Material: High-Grade Stamped Aluminum
• Finish: Mirror-Polished Surface
• Weight: 0.19 lbs (Ultra-lightweight construction)
• Style: Custom Multi-Slat Vent
• Placement: Front Hood / Cowl Fresh Air Intake
• Compatibility: Direct replacement for factory vent covers

PRO TIPS

1. Clean the Cowl Area Thoroughly Before Installation

Before snapping your new polished aluminum grill into place, take the time to deep-clean the recessed cowl area. Over the years, leaves, dirt, and pine needles accumulate in the fresh air plenum beneath the grill. This debris traps moisture against the metal, leading to the dreaded "cowl rot" that can be expensive to repair. Use a vacuum with a narrow attachment to suck out any loose material, and wipe the area down with a rust-inhibitor or a good coat of wax. This ensures that your new grill isn''t just covering up a problem, but is part of a well-maintained, long-lasting front end.

2. Handle with Care to Avoid Bending

While this EMPI grill is made of durable aluminum, it is a lightweight trim piece designed for aesthetics. When installing, apply even pressure across the surface rather than pushing hard on a single point. If the grill feels like it is resisting the mounting clips, double-check that the clips are properly aligned. Forcing the aluminum can lead to slight kinks or bends that will be visible in the polished finish. If you are using old, brittle plastic clips from your original grill, we highly recommend replacing them with fresh hardware to ensure a tight, rattle-free fit that won''t fly off at highway speeds.

3. Maintain the Shine with the Right Products

To keep your polished aluminum grill looking like chrome, avoid using harsh abrasive cleaners or stiff brushes that can scratch the soft metal. We recommend using a high-quality non-abrasive metal polish specifically designed for aluminum once or twice a year. If you live in a coastal area or a region where road salt is used in the winter, be sure to rinse the grill regularly. Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant, but road chemicals can cause it to dull or "cloud" over time. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth and a dedicated aluminum sealant will keep that "EMPI custom look" popping for the life of your Beetle.