Light Cover, 5 Inch Diameter With Eyes, Pair

OVERVIEW

Give your off-road rig that iconic, aggressive look while shielding your investment from the harsh elements of the trail. These EMPI 5-inch light covers are more than just a style statement; they are a functional necessity for any serious Baja Bug, Dune Buggy, or Sand Rail enthusiast. Designed with the classic "Eyes" graphic that has defined the air-cooled off-road scene for decades, these covers provide an instant personality transplant for your vehicle. Whether you are screaming across the dunes at Glamis or navigating a rocky trail in the high desert, these covers act as a first line of defense against flying debris, gravel, and low-hanging branches that can easily shatter expensive glass auxiliary lenses.

Crafted from heavy-duty, weather-resistant vinyl, these covers are built to withstand the punishing UV rays of the sun and the abrasive nature of sand and silt. The elasticized rear hem ensures a snug, secure fit that won''t fly off when you hit high speeds on the lake beds, yet they remain easy enough to remove in seconds when the sun goes down and you need to throw some light on the path ahead. Sold as a pair, these 16-9146-0 covers are the perfect finishing touch for any vintage-inspired build, offering that period-correct aesthetic that separates a true enthusiast machine from a standard street car. When you choose EMPI parts from Appletree Automotive, you are choosing a legacy of quality that has been the backbone of the VW community since the beginning.

FITMENT

These covers are designed for universal 5-inch diameter auxiliary off-road lights and are a perfect match for various air-cooled and off-road applications including:

• VW Beetle / Baja Bug: All years equipped with 5-inch bumper-mounted or roof-rack-mounted off-road lights.
• VW Bus / Type 2: Ideal for Westfalia or Transporter models featuring safari-style auxiliary lighting.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Perfect for Meyers Manx clones, tube chassis rails, and custom woods buggies.
• VW Type 181 Thing: Fits perfectly on front bumper brush guards using 5-inch housings.
• Universal Off-Road: Fits Hella, KC, and EMPI 5-inch round light housings commonly used on trucks and SUVs.

SPECS

As a master specialist, I ensure every detail is accounted for. Here are the technical specifications for the EMPI "Eyes" light covers:

• Diameter: 5 Inches (127mm) nominal fitment.
• Material: High-density, multi-layer weather-resistant vinyl.
• Graphic: Screen-printed classic "Eyes" motif with UV-resistant inks.
• Attachment Type: Heavy-duty elastic rear tension band for a slip-on fit.
• Quantity: Sold as a Pair (2 individual covers per package).
• Manufacturer: EMPI.
• Part Number: 16-9146-0.
• Color: White background with black and yellow detailing.

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: The Warmth Technique for Perfect Seating

Vinyl naturally hardens and shrinks slightly in cold temperatures, which can make the initial installation of a brand-new set of covers a bit of a struggle. To ensure a perfect, wrinkle-free fit without over-stressing the elastic stitching, I recommend placing the covers in direct sunlight or using a hair dryer on a low setting to warm them up before installation. Once the vinyl is supple, stretch it over the light housing. As it cools, it will "shrink-wrap" itself to the contours of your light, providing a professional look that stays put during high-vibration off-roading.

Tip 2: Never Operate Lights While Covered

It might seem obvious, but it is a common mistake that can ruin your day. Modern halogen and even some high-output LED 5-inch lights generate a significant amount of heat. If you accidentally flip your light switch while these vinyl covers are installed, the heat will be trapped against the glass, potentially melting the vinyl onto your lens or causing the glass to crack from thermal shock. Always double-check your auxiliary light switches before heading out, and consider installing a safety cover or "kill switch" for your off-road lights if you frequently drive on the street with the covers on.

Tip 3: Combatting Moisture and Corrosion

While these covers are excellent at keeping dust and rocks out, they can also trap moisture against the light bezel if you live in a humid climate or frequently wash your vehicle. After a wash or a rainy trail run, I suggest removing the covers and wiping down the chrome or painted surface of the light housing. Applying a light coat of wax or a silicone-based protectant to the light housing before putting the covers back on will prevent "pitting" and corrosion, ensuring that when you do take the covers off, your lights look just as pristine as the day you installed them.