Scalloped Brake Rotor For Ball Joint, Left Side

OVERVIEW

Elevate your air-cooled Volkswagen''s braking performance and aesthetic appeal with the EMPI Scalloped Brake Rotor, specifically engineered for the left side of ball joint front ends. This isn''t just a standard replacement part; it is a high-performance upgrade designed for the enthusiast who demands both form and function. The aggressive scalloped outer edge is more than just a styling choiceit significantly reduces unsprung weight, which improves suspension response and overall handling. When you are pushing your Beetle or Ghia through tight corners or navigating a spirited drive, every ounce removed from the rotating mass counts. Furthermore, the scalloped design increases the surface area for heat dissipation, ensuring that your braking system remains cool and consistent even under heavy use. This rotor is the perfect solution for custom builders looking to bridge the gap between vintage VW charm and modern performance standards.

Engineering excellence is at the heart of this EMPI rotor, featuring a sophisticated cross-drilled and slotted surface. The cross-drilling allows heat and gases to escape rapidly from between the pad and the rotor, while the slots act as a "wiper" to clear away brake dust and debris, maintaining a clean contact patch for maximum friction. To ensure longevity and a show-quality finish, the entire rotor is treated with a premium zinc plating. This coating is essential for resisting the corrosive effects of road salt, moisture, and oxidation, keeping your rotors looking crisp and professional behind your wheels. Perhaps the most versatile feature is the double-drilled hub, which offers two of the most popular performance bolt patterns in the industry: the Porsche 5x130mm and the Chevy 5x4.75-inch patterns. This flexibility allows you to run a wide variety of high-end aftermarket wheels without the need for adapters, making it a cornerstone component for any serious disc brake conversion or restoration project.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1966 through 1977 (Equipped with Ball Joint front ends)
• Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia: 1966 through 1974 (Equipped with Ball Joint front ends)
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes utilizing standard VW Ball Joint spindles.
• Note: Specifically designed for the Left (Driver) side of the vehicle.

SPECS

• Part Number: 22-3874-7
• Rotor Style: Scalloped Edge, Cross-Drilled, and Slotted
• Finish: Corrosion-Resistant Zinc Plating
• Primary Bolt Pattern: 5 x 130mm (Porsche Pattern)
• Secondary Bolt Pattern: 5 x 4.75 inch (Chevy Pattern)
• Spindle Compatibility: Fits Standard Ball Joint Disc Brake Spindles
• Material: High-Strength Cast Iron Alloy
• Position: Front Left (Driver Side)
• Thread Pitch: 14mm x 1.5 (Standard for many performance VW applications)
• Shipping Weight: Approximately 21.4 lbs

PRO TIPS

1. Thoroughly De-Grease Before Installation

While these rotors feature a beautiful zinc plating, they are often shipped with a light coating of industrial oil or cosmoline to prevent any possible surface contamination during transit. Before you slide the rotor onto your spindle and install your brake pads, it is vital to use a high-quality brake cleaner and a lint-free rag to wipe down the friction surfaces. If you fail to remove this oil, it will contaminate your new brake pads immediately, leading to "glazing" and a significant reduction in stopping power. Clean the rotor until the rag comes away spotless to ensure the best initial "bite" and a safe break-in period.

2. Verify Wheel Stud and Lug Bolt Clearance

Because this rotor is double-drilled for both Porsche and Chevy patterns, there are more holes in the hub area than a standard rotor. When installing your wheel studs or lug bolts, ensure that the hardware you are using is specifically designed for the pattern you have chosen. If you are using lug bolts, double-check that they do not protrude too far through the back of the rotor, as they could potentially interfere with the spindle or the brake caliper mounting bracket. We always recommend using high-quality Grade 10.9 or higher hardware to match the performance capabilities of these scalloped rotors, ensuring your wheels stay securely fastened under high-load conditions.

3. Follow a Proper Bedding-In Procedure

To get the most out of your scalloped, drilled, and slotted rotors, you must "bed" the brake pads correctly. This process involves performing a series of controlled stops from moderate speeds (roughly 40 mph down to 10 mph) without coming to a complete stop. Doing this 5 to 10 times allows a thin layer of friction material from the pads to transfer evenly onto the rotor surface. This "transfer layer" is what actually provides the stopping friction. Avoid "panic stops" or holding the brake pedal down firmly at a stoplight during the first 100 miles, as this can cause uneven heat spots and lead to rotor warping or brake pulsation. Proper bedding ensures a quiet, vibration-free experience and extends the life of both the rotor and the pads.