Rear Disc Brake Bracket, for Universal Caliper, Sold Each

REAR DISC BRAKE BRACKET OVERVIEW

Upgrading your air-cooled classic to a disc brake system is one of the most significant safety and performance enhancements you can make, and this EMPI Rear Disc Brake Bracket is the essential foundation for that conversion. Specifically designed for universal-style calipers, this bracket serves as the bridge between your vehicle''s axle housing and the superior stopping power of modern disc brakes. Whether you are building a dedicated sand rail, a rugged baja bug, or a street-bound Beetle, the transition from antiquated drum brakes to a disc setup reduces brake fade, improves heat dissipation, and provides a much more consistent pedal feel. This bracket is the exact replacement component used in many of the industry''s most popular economy disc brake kits, ensuring that if you ever damage a mount during a hard landing off-road or a restoration project, you can get back on the road without purchasing an entirely new kit.

Engineered from heavy-duty stamped steel, these brackets are built to withstand the rigors of both daily driving and spirited off-road use. Because these are stamped components, they offer a cost-effective solution for enthusiasts who prioritize functionality and value. As a master air-cooled specialist, I have seen these brackets used in countless builds to provide reliable caliper positioning. It is important to note that because these are stamped, they provide a rigid mount that may require minor shimming or "tweaking" to ensure the caliper sits perfectly centered over the rotor. This attention to detail during installation ensures that your brake pads wear evenly and your rotors remain true. This specific bracket is designed for non-emergency brake applications, making it the go-to choice for off-roaders and performance-oriented street cars that utilize a hydraulic staging brake or do not require a mechanical parking brake cable interface.

VEHICLE FITMENT AND COMPATIBILITY

This bracket is designed to work with a wide range of air-cooled Volkswagen applications that have been converted using specific EMPI or Appletree economy disc brake kits. It is compatible with the following vehicle types and kit numbers:

• VW Type 1 Beetle & Ghia: Fits models converted with swing axle or IRS rear ends.
• VW Type 3: Fits Notchback, Squareback, and Fastback models using compatible conversion kits.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Ideal for custom tube chassis or fiberglass bodies using VW-based transaxles.
• Compatible Kit Numbers: A1032, A1001, 22-2861-0, 22-2862-0, 22-2910-0, 22-2911-0, 22-2916-0, 22-2917-0, 22-2929-0, 22-2930-0.
• Caliper Fitment: Designed for "Universal VW" style calipers (Note: Does NOT fit calipers with integrated E-brake/Parking brake mechanisms).

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: High-strength stamped steel for maximum durability and impact resistance.
• Finish: Raw steel (Recommended to paint or powder coat before final installation to prevent oxidation).
• Application: Rear axle disc brake conversion.
• Caliper Type: Universal floating-style calipers without emergency brake options.
• Mounting Hardware: Sold separately (Uses standard high-grade mounting bolts).
• Quantity: Sold Each (Two required for a complete rear axle set).
• Part Number: AC501490 (EMPI Reference).
• Weight: Approximately 0.97 lbs.

PRO TIPS FROM THE SHOP

Tip 1: Precision Alignment for Longevity

When installing these stamped steel brackets, it is vital to check the alignment of the caliper relative to the rotor. Because the stamping process can have very slight variances, I always recommend using a set of thin shim washers between the bracket and the axle flange if necessary. Your goal is to have the brake pads perfectly parallel to the rotor surface. If the bracket sits at even a slight angle, you will experience uneven pad wear, "spongy" pedal feel, and potentially excessive heat buildup. Always do a "dry fit" without the pads first to see how the caliper body centers over the rotor.

Tip 2: Hardware and Safety Standards

Never reuse old, crusty drum brake bolts when mounting these high-performance brackets. The torque loads applied during heavy braking are significant. I strongly advise using Grade 8 or higher mounting hardware. Additionally, apply a drop of blue (medium strength) thread-locking compound to the mounting bolts. Vibration is a constant factor in air-cooled VWs, especially in off-road environments, and the last thing you want is a caliper bracket vibrating loose while you are descending a steep grade or navigating traffic.

Tip 3: Finishing and Corrosion Protection

These brackets typically arrive in a raw steel or light oil finish to prevent rust during shipping. Before you do your final assembly, take the time to properly clean, prime, and paint them with a high-heat engine or brake paint. For those looking for the ultimate protection, powder coating is an excellent option. Since these are located in a high-moisture and high-heat area near the exhaust and tires, protecting the metal ensures that the brackets won''t develop surface rust, which can eventually make future brake service or pad changes a difficult task.