Rear Sway Bar, for Beetle 69-79, IRS Rear

OVERVIEW

If you have ever pushed your late-model Beetle through a sharp turn and felt that unsettling ''''boating'''' sensation or excessive body roll, you know that the factory suspension has its limits. The EMPI 3/4-inch Rear Sway Bar is the definitive performance upgrade for 1969 to 1979 Volkswagen Beetles equipped with Independent Rear Suspension (IRS). By mechanically linking the trailing arms, this heavy-duty bar significantly reduces lateral weight transfer, allowing your VW to maintain a much flatter cornering attitude. This improvement isn''t just about making the car feel ''''sporty''''; it is about safety, predictability, and tire contact. When you minimize the lean, you keep the rear tires planted firmly on the asphalt, which provides superior traction and drastically reduces the tendency for the rear end to ''''load up'''' and snap during aggressive maneuvers or emergency swerving.

Engineering-wise, this kit is specifically designed for the VW enthusiast who demands high-level performance without the headache of permanent vehicle modifications. Every component in this EMPI kit is manufactured from high-tensile spring steel and finished with a durable zinc plating to withstand the harsh environment of the undercarriage. The kit is a comprehensive bolt-on solution, utilizing heavy-duty steel clamps that secure the bushings against the torsion tube, while the specialized brackets interface directly between the spring plate and the trailing arm. Whether you are daily driving a classic Super Beetle or building a weekend canyon carver, this sway bar eliminates wheel hop and provides the structural rigidity necessary to modernize your air-cooled VW''s handling characteristics without compromising ride quality.

FITMENT

This rear sway bar kit is designed specifically for Volkswagen Type 1 models equipped with Independent Rear Suspension (IRS). Please verify your rear suspension type before ordering.

• VW Beetle (Standard): 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• VW Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1974 (IRS Models Only)
• Note: Fits both Manual and Autostick transmissions.
• Note: Does NOT fit Swing Axle models (pre-1969 US models).

SPECS

• Bar Diameter: 3/4 Inch (19mm) for maximum torsional rigidity.
• Material: Heat-treated, high-carbon spring steel.
• Finish: Corrosion-resistant Bright Zinc Plating.
• Hardware: Includes all necessary zinc-plated bolts, washers, and nuts.
• Bushings: High-density rubber/polyurethane blend for vibration dampening and durability.
• Installation Type: 100% Bolt-on (No drilling or welding required).
• Shipping Weight: 10.25 lbs.
• Manufacturer Part Number: 00-9597-0.

PRO TIPS

1. Lubricate the Bushings for a Silent Ride

One of the most common complaints with aftermarket sway bars is a ''''squeaking'''' sound when the suspension travels up and down. To prevent this, you must apply a generous amount of high-quality, waterproof silicone-based grease or marine-grade lithium grease to the inside of the bushings where they contact the bar. Do not use petroleum-based grease, as it can cause the rubber or polyurethane material to degrade over time. A well-lubricated bushing ensures the bar rotates freely, allowing the suspension to do its job without adding unnecessary friction or annoying noises.

2. Tighten Hardware at Ride Height

When installing this sway bar, it is tempting to tighten everything down while the car is high up on jack stands with the wheels hanging. However, this is a mistake that can lead to improper suspension loading and premature bushing wear. You should get all the hardware snug while the car is in the air, but perform the final torqueing once the car is back on its own weight