Rear Brake Rebuild Kit, Beetle 58-64, Swing Axle Suspension

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the safety and reliability of your vintage Volkswagen, nothing is more critical than the stopping power of your rear drum brakes. This EMPI Rear Brake Rebuild Kit is the ultimate solution for owners of 1958 to 1964 Beetles looking to restore that factory-fresh pedal feel and dependable braking performance. Over decades of service, original brake components suffer from heat scoring, hydraulic fluid leaks, and mechanical fatigue. Instead of hunting down individual springs or hoping your local parts store has the right wheel cylinders, this comprehensive bundle provides everything you need in one box. Designed specifically for the swing axle suspension and the iconic 5x205 "Wide 5" lug pattern, this kit ensures that your classic Type 1 remains as safe on the road as it was the day it left the assembly line in Wolfsburg.

Every component in this kit has been curated to meet the demanding standards of air-cooled enthusiasts. The heavy-duty cast iron drums provide a stable friction surface, while the high-quality brake shoes are engineered for consistent grip without excessive noise. One of the most common failure points in the VW braking system is the wheel cylinder, which can seize or leak over time, ruining your new shoes; this kit includes brand-new, precision-manufactured cylinders to prevent that exact scenario. Furthermore, we include all the often-overlooked hardware, such as the adjusting stars and screws, which are frequently seized or stripped on older vehicles. By replacing the entire assembly at once, you eliminate the risk of mismatched parts and ensure balanced braking across the rear axle, which is vital for preventing dangerous pulls or skids during emergency stops.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle (Type 1): 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964
• Chassis Type: Swing Axle Suspension Only
• Lug Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide 5)
• Note: Not compatible with later 4-lug (4x130) conversions or IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) setups.

SPECS

• Brake Drums: (2) High-quality cast iron drums with 5x205mm bolt pattern
• Brake Shoes: (1) Set of 4 premium organic friction material shoes (covers both rear wheels)
• Wheel Cylinders: (2) Bore-matched rear wheel cylinders for consistent hydraulic pressure
• Hardware Kit: Complete spring and clip kit for secure shoe retention
• Adjusting Screws: (4) Precision-threaded screws for fine-tuning shoe clearance
• Adjusting Stars: (4) Replacement stars to ensure smooth adjustment through the backing plate holes
• Material: OEM-grade steel and cast iron construction
• Finish: Natural cast finish on drums; corrosion-resistant coating on hardware

PRO TIPS

1. The 36mm Nut and Proper Torque

When you are pulling the rear drums, you will need a 36mm socket and a serious breaker bar to remove the axle nut. It is absolutely essential that you replace the cotter pin with a brand-new one every single time you remove it. When reassembling, don''t just "snug" it up; these nuts require a massive amount of torque (roughly 217 ft-lbs or more depending on your specific shop manual). If this nut is loose, the drum will wobble on the splines, eventually stripping the axle or the drum, which is a very costly and dangerous failure. Always check your torque after the first 50 miles of driving to ensure everything has seated properly on the splined shaft.

2. Pre-Cleaning and Degreasing

Before you install those shiny new drums, you must clean the inner braking surface thoroughly. Manufacturers often apply a thin layer of "packing oil" or cosmoline to the drums to prevent rust while they sit in the warehouse. If you don''t remove this with a high-quality brake cleaner, the oil will soak into your brand-new brake shoes the first time they get hot, effectively ruining their friction properties and causing "brake fade" or glazed shoes. Spray the inside of the drum until the runoff is clear, then wipe it down with a clean, lint-free rag before sliding it over the shoes.

3. Master the Adjustment Dance

Properly adjusting VW drum brakes is an art form that significantly impacts your pedal height. Once the kit is installed, use a brake adjustment tool (or a wide flathead screwdriver) through the backing plate holes to turn the adjusting stars. You should turn them until the wheel is locked and cannot be moved by hand, then back them off exactly enough so the wheel spins freely with just a very slight "whisper" of contact between the shoe and the drum. Do this for both stars on each wheel. This ensures the wheel cylinder doesn''t have to travel as far to engage the brakes, giving you a firm, high pedal that inspires confidence every time you hit the stop light.