Headlight Rim, for Beetle & Bus 50-62, Sold Each

OVERVIEW

When it is time to restore the iconic face of your vintage Volkswagen, nothing defines the early look quite like a pristine, gleaming headlight rim. This EMPI Headlight Rim is engineered specifically for the 1950 through 1962 Beetle and Bus, capturing the authentic aesthetic of the "sloping" headlight era. For enthusiasts performing a ground-up restoration or simply looking to replace a pitted, rusted, or dented original, this rim provides the perfect fit and finish. The high-quality chrome plating offers a brilliant shine that reflects the classic craftsmanship of the 1950s, ensuring your VW looks just as it did when it first rolled off the assembly line in Wolfsburg. These rims are essential for maintaining the period-correct appearance that judges and purists look for at every vintage VW show.

Beyond the aesthetics, the functionality of this headlight rim is paramount for safety and ease of maintenance. This specific model features the crucial adjustment screw holes located at the 5 and 7 o''clock positions, which is the defining characteristic for the 1950-1962 production years. If your current rims are mismatched or have stripped threads, you know how difficult it can be to properly aim your beams for night driving. By installing these fresh EMPI units, you ensure a secure seat for your glass lenses and a stable platform for your headlight buckets. Sold individually, these rims allow you to replace a single damaged unit or upgrade both sides for a uniform, mirror-like finish that will stand up to the elements and keep your air-cooled treasure looking its absolute best for miles to come.

FITMENT

This headlight rim is designed for the following air-cooled Volkswagen models with sloping headlights:

• VW Beetle (Type 1): 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962.
• VW Bus / Type 2 (Transporter, Kombi, Microbus): 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962.
• Note: Fits vehicles with adjustment screw configurations at the 5 and 7 o''clock positions only.

SPECS

Detailed technical specifications for the EMPI Headlight Rim:

• Part Number: 111-941-111 (Reference 98-2059-B).
• Material: Heavy-duty stamped steel with a high-luster chrome-plated finish.
• Adjustment Configuration: Dual screw holes located at the 5 o''clock and 7 o''clock positions.
• Headlight Style: Designed for "Sloping" or "Slanted" style headlight assemblies.
• Quantity: Sold Each (Order two for a complete vehicle set).
• Weight: Approximately 0.64 lbs per unit.
• Compatibility: Fits original German and aftermarket replacement headlight buckets for the specified years.

PRO TIPS

1. Seal Integrity is Everything

When you are installing your new headlight rims, it is the absolute best time to inspect and replace your headlight lens seals and the fender-to-bucket seals. Even the best chrome rim cannot protect your electrical connections if moisture is leaking behind the glass. Ensure the rubber seal is seated perfectly in the groove of the rim before tightening the bottom mounting screw. A light coating of silicone spray on the rubber seals can help them seat properly without binding or pinching, which prevents water from entering the bucket and causing premature corrosion on your new chrome or the headlight reflector itself.

2. Preserve the Chrome Finish

Chrome plating on vintage-style parts requires a little bit of love to stay looking new, especially if you live in a humid climate or near the coast. Once you have installed your new rims, apply a high-quality automotive paste wax or a dedicated chrome sealant to the surface. This creates a microscopic barrier against road salt, moisture, and UV rays. When washing your VW, avoid using abrasive sponges on the rims; a soft microfiber cloth and a quick detailer spray are all you need to maintain that deep, mirror-like shine without scratching the surface. Regular maintenance will prevent the "pitting" that often plagues older VW trim.

3. Verify Your Screw Positions

Before you finalize your order, it is vital to double-check your existing headlight buckets. Volkswagen transitioned through several headlight designs between 1950 and 1967. This specific rim is for the 50-62 era with screws at 5 and 7 o''clock. If your VW has been modified by a previous owner or if you have a later model year (1963-1966), the screw positions may be at 4 and 8 o''clock. Taking thirty seconds to look at your current headlights will ensure you get the right part the first time, saving you the headache of a return and ensuring your restoration stays on schedule.