Rear Trailing Arms, Stock X 1 Longer, DOM Steel for IRS

OVERVIEW

When you''re pushing your air-cooled Volkswagen to the limit, whether it''s on a rugged trail or a high-performance street build, the factory stamped-steel trailing arms are often the weakest link in your rear suspension. Our Appletree Automotive Stock x 1 inch Longer DOM Steel Trailing Arms are engineered to solve that problem once and for all. Constructed from heavy-duty Drawn Over Mandrel (DOM) steel tubing, these arms offer a massive increase in structural rigidity and impact resistance compared to the original equipment. By moving the hub back exactly one inch, you gain a slightly longer wheelbase which significantly improves high-speed stability and provides a bit more clearance for larger tires without the extreme modifications required by 3x3 or 2x5 arms. The integration of a 4130 Chromoly bearing carrier ensures that your wheel bearings stay perfectly aligned and seated, even under the most punishing side-loads and torque demands.

These trailing arms are the perfect "middle ground" for the enthusiast who wants more than stock performance but wants to maintain a standard track width. Because they are standard OEM width, you don''t have to worry about your tires sticking out past the fenders or needing custom-width torsion housings. They are designed as a robust upgrade for any Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) setup, making them an ideal choice for Baja Bugs, Manx-style dune buggies, or even heavy-duty street Beetles that have outgrown their factory components. Please note that these arms are shipped in a raw steel finish and do not include shock bosses, giving you the ultimate flexibility to weld your shock mounts in the precise location required for your specific suspension travel and shock length. If you''re tired of dealing with bent arms and poor alignment, these DOM steel units are the professional-grade solution your VW deserves.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle (Sedan & Convertible): 1969 - 1977 (IRS Models)
• VW Super Beetle: 1971 - 1979
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1969 - 1974
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1969 - 1973
• VW Thing (Type 181): All Years
• Custom Applications: Any Sand Rail, Dune Buggy, or Kit Car utilizing a standard VW IRS pivot point and torsion housing.

SPECS

• Material: High-Quality DOM (Drawn Over Mandrel) Steel Tubing
• Bearing Carrier: Heavy-Duty 4130 Chromoly Steel
• Length: +1 Inch Longer than Stock
• Width: Standard OEM Track Width
• Suspension Type: IRS (Independent Rear Suspension)
• Bearing Compatibility: Accepts Standard VW IRS Bearings, Spacers, and Seals
• Finish: Raw Steel (Requires Painting or Powder Coating)
• Shock Mounts: Not Included (Requires Welding of Shock Bosses)
• Weight: Approximately 38.55 lbs (Pair)
• SKU: TASX1

PRO TIPS

1. Precision Shock Boss Placement

Since these arms do not come with shock bosses pre-installed, you have the opportunity to optimize your suspension geometry. Before welding your shock mounts, we highly recommend cycling the suspension through its full range of motionfrom full compression to full extension. Ensure that the shock does not "bottom out" or "top out" before the suspension hits its physical limits or bump stops. Also, check for clearance against the CV joints and the frame horns throughout the entire arc of travel. A common mistake is welding the boss too high, which can lead to the shock body binding against the arm at full droop.

2. Verify Axle and CV Joint Clearance

Moving the bearing carrier back by one inch changes the angle and effective length requirements of your drive axles. While many stock IRS setups can accommodate a 1-inch stretch with standard axles, you must carefully check for "CV plunge." At both full droop and full compression, ensure the axle has enough room to move within the CV joints without bottoming out the internal star against the cage or the snap ring. If you find the axles are too tight, you may need to upgrade to slightly longer axles or high-angle Type 2 (Bus) or 930 CV joints to prevent drivetrain failure during hard acceleration or off-road jumps.

3. Proper Surface Prep and Protection

These trailing arms are manufactured from raw DOM steel to allow for easy welding of shock bosses and limit straps. However, raw steel will begin to surface rust almost immediately if exposed to moisture. After you have finished all your welding and mock-up, it is critical to thoroughly degrease the arms and apply a high-quality protective coating. We recommend a durable powder coat or a multi-step epoxy paint system. Don''t forget to mask off the internal bearing carrier surfaces and the pivot bushing areas before painting, as excess build-up in these precision-machined areas will make bearing and bushing installation nearly impossible.