Gt-8 Wheel, All Chrome, 5.5 Wide, 4 on 130mm VW

OVERVIEW

Elevate your air-cooled Volkswagen''s aesthetic and performance with the EMPI GT-8 Wheel, a masterpiece of classic 8-spoke design finished in a brilliant, mirror-like chrome. As a master specialist at Appletree Auto, I can tell you that the GT-8 is more than just a wheel; it is a tribute to the golden era of VW performance styling. This wheel provides a profound visual upgrade over stock steelies, offering a wide-track look that fills the fender wells perfectly. The 5.5-inch width is the "sweet spot" for many enthusiasts, allowing for a slightly wider tire footprint that improves lateral stability and handling without requiring aggressive body modifications or sacrificing that vintage charm. Whether you are building a show-stopping California Look Beetle or a clean, daily-driven Karmann Ghia, these wheels provide the durability of modern aluminum alloy casting with the timeless soul of 1970s racing heritage.

Engineering excellence is at the heart of the EMPI GT-8. Designed specifically for the 4 on 130mm lug pattern, this wheel ensures a hub-centric-style fitment that minimizes vibration and maximizes safety. The all-chrome finish is applied using a high-quality plating process that resists the elements, provided you give it the care an air-cooled classic deserves. Included with every wheel is a sleek, matching center cap and a high-quality valve stem, saving you the headache of sourcing small parts separately. At Appletree Auto, we know that the right stance defines a Volkswagen, and the 30mm backspacing on these GT-8s provides the ideal offset to clear your disc or drum brakes while keeping the tire tucked neatly under the fender lip for that aggressive, yet refined, profile. Don''t settle for mediocre imitations when you can bolt on the legacy of EMPI, a name synonymous with VW performance for over half a century.

FITMENT

This wheel is designed for Volkswagen models utilizing the standard 4-lug (4x130mm) bolt pattern. Please verify your vehicle''s current drum or disc configuration before ordering.

• VW Beetle: 1968 through 1977 (Standard models)
• VW Super Beetle: 1971 through 1979 (Sedan and Convertible)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1967 through 1974
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1966 through 1973
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: Any sand rail, dune buggy, or kit car utilizing 4x130mm VW swing axle or IRS rear ends and matching front spindles.

SPECS

• Diameter: 15 Inches
• Width: 5.5 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 4 on 130mm
• Backspacing: 30mm (Positive Offset)
• Material: High-Strength Cast Aluminum Alloy
• Finish: Full Triple Chrome Plated
• Lug Seat: 60-Degree Taper (Requires specific 60-degree taper lugs)
• Load Rating: Engineered for all air-cooled VW passenger car weights
• Center Cap: Included (Part number 00-9708-0)
• Valve Stem: Included
• Weight: Approximately 16.68 lbs

PRO TIPS

1. Use the Correct Lug Hardware

One of the most common mistakes I see in the shop is the attempt to reuse factory VW lug bolts with aftermarket EMPI wheels. Factory Volkswagen wheels typically utilize a "ball seat" (radiused) lug. However, the EMPI GT-8 is machined for a 60-degree "taper seat" (conical). Using the wrong seat type will prevent the lug from seating properly, which can lead to the lugs loosening over time or damaging the wheel''s mounting surface. We highly recommend using the 00-9519-0 lug bolts or 00-9484-0 nuts depending on your stud/bolt setup to ensure a safe and secure connection to your hubs.

2. Maintain That Chrome Brilliance

Chrome wheels look incredible, but they require a different maintenance routine than painted or polished wheels. Never clean these wheels while they are hot from driving, as the rapid temperature change and chemical reaction can cause the chrome to cloud or peel over time. Avoid using harsh, acid-based wheel cleaners that are often found at local car washes. Instead, use a pH-neutral soap and a soft microfiber mitt. To truly protect your investment, I recommend applying a high-quality synthetic wheel sealant or wax every few months. This creates a barrier against brake dust and road salt, ensuring your GT-8s stay mirror-bright for years to come.

3. Verify Tire Clearance for Lowered Cars

While the 5.5-inch width and 30mm backspacing are designed to fit most stock Volkswagens perfectly, things change once you start lowering the vehicle. If you are running a narrowed beam or dropped spindles on a Beetle, pay close attention to the tire size you choose. For a classic "Cal-Look" rake, many of our customers pair these wheels with a 145/80R15 or 135R15 tire in the front and a 165R15 or 195/65R15 in the rear. Always check for tire rub against the outer fender lip or the inner wheel well during full-lock turns, especially if your suspension has been significantly modified. Properly sizing your tires ensures that your GT-8 wheels provide performance without the headache of body damage.