Hood Handle Guard, Aluminum, For Beetle 68-74

OVERVIEW

Elevate your classic Volkswagen''s exterior aesthetics while simultaneously safeguarding its precious finish with the EMPI Aluminum Hood Handle Guard. For any air-cooled enthusiast who has spent countless hours detailing their Beetle, the sight of fine scratches and "fingernail swirls" etched into the paint behind the hood handle is a common source of frustration. This precision-stamped aluminum guard provides a stylish, high-luster barrier that absorbs the wear and tear of daily operation. By installing this accessory, you ensure that your paint remains as pristine as the day it left the spray booth, protecting it from the inevitable contact of fingers and keys reaching to release the front luggage compartment. It is a quintessential, period-correct accessory that perfectly complements both the "Cal-Look" and vintage restoration styles that have defined the VW community for over half a century.

Crafted by EMPI, arguably the most iconic name in the VW aftermarket industry, this hood handle guard is engineered specifically for the late-model hood handle configuration found on 1968 and later Beetles. Unlike lower-quality alternatives that may rust or pit over time, this unit features a polished aluminum construction that offers a brilliant, mirror-like shine and exceptional resistance to the elements. The kit comes complete with a custom-contoured gasket, which is an absolute necessity for preventing metal-on-paint contact and ensuring a snug, rattle-free fitment. Whether you are finishing a ground-up restoration or simply looking to add a touch of "jewelry" to your daily driver, this guard is a small investment that delivers a massive impact on both the longevity and the curb appeal of your Volkswagen''s front end.

FITMENT

This aluminum hood handle guard is designed to fit the following air-cooled Volkswagen models equipped with the late-style (1968-up) hood handle:

• VW Standard Beetle: 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, and 1977.
• VW Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, and 1979.
• Note: Not compatible with early-style "T-Handle" or "Push Button" handles found on 1967 and earlier models.

SPECS

Below are the technical specifications for the EMPI Hood Handle Guard (Part # 00-6433-0):

• Material: High-grade stamped aluminum.
• Finish: Bright polished mirror finish.
• Attachment Type: Sandwich-mount (installs between the hood handle and the body).
• Gasket Included: Yes, high-density rubber/plastic protective gasket.
• Weight: Approximately 0.17 lbs.
• Width: Optimized for late-model wide hood handles.
• Corrosion Resistance: Naturally rust-resistant aluminum alloy.

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Surface Preparation is Key

Before installing your new aluminum guard, ensure the area behind your existing hood handle is thoroughly cleaned and waxed. Over decades of use, dirt and grime often accumulate under the handle base. Once the handle is removed, use a non-abrasive clay bar or a fine polishing compound to remove any existing light scratches. Applying a fresh coat of high-quality carnauba wax to the paint before laying down the gasket will provide an extra layer of protection against moisture trapping, which can lead to corrosion in the long run.

Tip 2: Align the Gasket Carefully

When assembling the guard and the gasket onto the hood, it is common for the gasket to shift slightly as you tighten the handle bolts. To ensure a professional, symmetrical look, use a small amount of painters'' tape to temporarily hold the gasket to the back of the aluminum guard during the initial threading of the bolts. This prevents the gasket from "puckering" or sticking out unevenly on one side. Once the handle is snug, you can remove the tape and perform the final tightening for a perfectly centered appearance.

Tip 3: Don''t Over-Tighten the Mounting Bolts

While it is tempting to crank down on the hood handle bolts to ensure everything is secure, remember that you are sandwiching a gasket and a thin aluminum plate against your VW''s sheet metal. Over-tightening can cause the aluminum guard to bow or distort, and in extreme cases, it can cause the gasket to squeeze out from the sides or even dimple the hood metal. Tighten the bolts until the handle is firm and doesn''t move when pulled, but avoid using excessive force. A drop of medium-strength thread locker on the mounting bolts is a much better way to ensure the handle stays put than over-torquing the hardware.