Irs Trailing Arm Pivot Bushings, Rear for Beetle 68-76, 2 Pc

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the handling and stability of your classic Volkswagen, the Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) system is a masterpiece of engineering, but it is only as reliable as its pivot points. Over decades of service, the factory-installed rubber bushings in your trailing arms succumb to dry rot, oil saturation, and the constant mechanical stress of the road. This deterioration leads to "rear-end wander," vague steering feedback, and inconsistent wheel alignment that can make your Beetle feel disconnected from the pavement. Upgrading to these high-performance urethane trailing arm pivot bushings is the definitive solution for restoring the structural integrity of your rear suspension. Unlike soft rubber that flexes excessively under load, these urethane bushings provide a firm, stable pivot point that keeps your trailing arms precisely located, ensuring your tires stay flat on the road during aggressive cornering or high-speed cruising.

Engineered for the demanding environments of both daily street driving and off-road excursions, these EMPI IRS trailing arm bushings are a significant upgrade over the original equipment. Each bushing features a heavy-duty steel liner that acts as a bearing surface for the pivot bolt, preventing the urethane from binding and ensuring smooth suspension travel throughout the entire range of motion. The red urethane material is specifically formulated to resist the caustic effects of road salt, gasoline, and engine oil, meaning these will likely be the last set of bushings you ever need to install. Whether you are restoring a 1971 Super Beetle to showroom condition or building a rugged sand rail that needs to handle the abuse of the dunes, these bushings provide the "planted" feel and predictable handling that every air-cooled enthusiast deserves. At Appletree Automotive, we understand that precision matters, and these pivot bushings deliver the exact tolerances required to keep your VW tracking straight and true.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle (Sedan & Convertible): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976 (IRS Models Only)
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1974 (IRS Models Only)
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973, 1974
• Custom Applications: Any Dune Buggy, Sand Rail, or Baja Bug utilizing 1968-and-later IRS trailing arms.

SPECS

• Material: High-Durometer Performance Urethane
• Insert Material: Precision-Machined Zinc-Plated Steel Liner
• Quantity: Sold as a Pair (2 Bushings and 2 Steel Sleeves)
• Color: Vibrant Red for High Visibility and Durability
• Application: Rear Trailing Arm Pivot Point (Inner)
• Suspension Type: Compatible with Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) Only
• Part Number: AC530020
• Compatibility: Replaces OEM VW part numbers for 1968-1976 IRS trailing arms

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Lubrication is Mandatory

When installing urethane bushings, the most common mistake is using the wrong type of grease or no grease at all. To prevent the dreaded "urethane squeak," you must use a high-quality, water-resistant silicone-based lubricant. Never use a petroleum-based grease, as it can actually break down the chemical bonds of the urethane over time and cause premature failure. Apply a generous coating of silicone grease to the inner bore of the bushing where the steel sleeve slides in, as well as the outer faces that contact the mounting brackets. This ensures quiet operation and reduces friction, allowing the suspension to move effortlessly.

2. Cleaning the Trailing Arm Housing

Before you press or tap your new bushings into place, it is critical to thoroughly clean the inside of the trailing arm pivot eye. After removing the old, crusty rubber bushings, use a wire brush or a small sanding drum to remove any remaining rubber residue, rust, or scale. If the inner surface is pitted or rough, the new urethane bushing may not seat correctly or could be damaged during installation. A clean, smooth surface ensures a snug fit and prevents the bushing from rotating inside the arm, which keeps the pivot action focused on the steel sleeve where it belongs.

3. Re-Check Your Rear Alignment

Replacing worn-out rubber bushings with firm urethane will often slightly shift the resting position of your trailing arms. Because IRS Volkswagens are sensitive to rear toe and camber settings, we highly recommend performing a professional four-wheel alignment after the installation is complete. Even a small change in the pivot point can affect how the car tracks down the road. By getting the alignment dialed in with your new, solid pivot points, you will maximize tire life and experience the full performance benefit of the upgraded suspension, turning your VW into a much more stable and enjoyable machine to drive.