Irs Cv Boot, 002 & 091 Type 2 Bus 68-79, Sold Each

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Protecting your drivetrain is paramount when it comes to maintaining the longevity of your air-cooled Volkswagen, and nothing is more critical than the integrity of your CV boots. This IRS CV Boot is specifically engineered for the heavy-duty 002 and 091 transaxles found in the Type 2 Bus and the Type 181 Thing. Over time, heat, road debris, and constant articulation cause original rubber boots to crack, dry rot, or tear. Once the seal is broken, the specialized molybdenum grease escapes, and destructive contaminants like sand, salt, and water enter the CV joint. This leads to rapid wear, clicking sounds, and eventually, a catastrophic axle failure that could leave you stranded. By replacing your worn-out boots with these high-quality OEM-style units, you are ensuring that your CV joints remain lubricated and shielded from the harsh environments of both the highway and the trail.

At Appletree Automotive, we understand that Bus owners demand parts that can handle the extra weight and torque associated with the larger Type 4 engines and heavy-duty 002/091 gearboxes. These boots are manufactured from a robust, oil-resistant rubber compound designed to maintain flexibility across a wide temperature range, preventing the premature splitting often seen in inferior "universal" kits. Whether you are performing a routine service on your 1971 Westfalia or restoring a 1974 Thing for off-road adventures, these boots provide the factory-correct fit and seal required for Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) setups. Sold individually, these boots allow you to replace a single damaged unit or perform a complete overhaul of all four joints to ensure your drivetrain remains bulletproof for years to come.

FITMENT APPLICATIONS

• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus (Bay Window): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: 1973, 1974
• Transaxle Compatibility: Designed for 002 (3-rib and 5-rib) and 091 (6-rib) Bus Transmissions
• Suspension Type: IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) only

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Part Number: 211-501-149
• Material: High-density, oil-resistant heavy-duty rubber
• Boot Style: Multi-ribbed bellows/accordion design for maximum articulation
• Inside Diameter (Large End): Approximately 100mm (Standard Bus CV size)
• Inside Diameter (Small End): Designed for standard Bus-diameter IRS axles
• Quantity: Sold Each (4 required per vehicle for a full axle service)
• Compatibility: Fits both inner and outer CV joint positions

PRO TIPS FROM THE SHOP

1. Deep Clean and Inspect Before Installation

When you have the axle out to replace the boot, don''t just wipe off the old grease and slap the new boot on. Take the time to completely disassemble the CV joint, wash it in a parts cleaner, and inspect the race and bearings for "pitting" or "galling." If you see any shiny indentations or rough spots on the metal surfaces, the joint is already compromised. Installing a new boot on a worn joint is a temporary fix that won''t stop the eventual failure. Always start with a clean, inspected, or new CV joint to maximize the life of your new boot.

2. Use the Right Grease and Quantity

Standard chassis grease is NOT acceptable for CV joints. You must use a high-quality Molybdenum Disulfide (Moly) grease, which is specifically designed to handle the high-pressure sliding friction inside a CV joint. When filling the boot, avoid the temptation to pack it until it''s bursting. Over-filling can cause the boot to expand like a balloon as it heats up during highway speeds, which can lead to the boot rubbing against the frame or popping off the flange. Typically, one standard 3oz or 90g tube of grease is sufficient for one joint and boot assembly.

3. Master the Art of the Clamp

The seal is only as good as the clamp holding it in place. We highly recommend using Oetiker-style stepless ear clamps or high-quality screw-type CV clamps rather than plastic zip ties, which can melt or stretch. When tightening your clamps, ensure the boot is "neutral" and not stretched or compressed too tightly while the car is at ride height. If the boot is installed under tension, it will tear much faster as the suspension cycles up and down. Also, ensure the clamping surface on the CV flange is completely free of grease before sliding the boot on, or it may slip off under high centrifugal force.