Smoothie Hub Cap for 5 Bolt

OVERVIEW

Elevate the aesthetic of your vintage Volkswagen with the EMPI Smoothie Hub Cap, a timeless accessory designed for those who demand a clean, custom look without the distraction of logos or insignias. These "Smoothie" style caps are a staple in the Cal-Look and Resto-Mod communities, providing a seamless, aerodynamic appearance that harkens back to the golden era of air-cooled performance. Crafted with a deep-mirror chrome finish, these hubcaps don''t just cover your lug nuts; they transform the entire profile of your vehicle, making stock steel wheels look like high-end custom rollers. Whether you are finishing a ground-up restoration or simply refreshing your daily driver, these caps offer the perfect balance of vintage charm and modern manufacturing precision.

Engineered specifically for the classic Wide-5 (5x205mm) bolt pattern, these hubcaps are built to withstand the rigors of the road while maintaining their brilliant luster. Unlike cheaper alternatives that may yellow or peel over time, EMPI''s commitment to quality ensures a durable plating process that resists the elements. The "Smoothie" design is particularly popular among dune buggy enthusiasts and Type 1 owners who want to hide the utilitarian look of the 5-bolt drum setup. Sold individually, these caps allow for easy replacement of a single damaged unit or a complete set overhaul. When you choose EMPI parts from Appletree Automotive, you are investing in decades of air-cooled heritage and a fitment that is second to none in the aftermarket industry.

FITMENT

This hubcap is designed for standard Volkswagen Wide-5 (5x205mm) steel wheels. Please verify your wheel type before ordering, as these will not fit 4-lug or late-model 5-lug wheels.

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1946 through 1967 (Standard models with 5-lug wheels).
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter: 1950 through 1970 (Early bay and split window models).
• Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1965.
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: All years utilizing the 5x205mm bolt pattern.
• Custom Applications: Fits most aftermarket 5-lug "Wide-5" steel wheels used on Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Trikes.

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI.
• Part Number: 10-1061-0.
• Style: Smoothie (No Logo).
• Material: Heavy-duty Stamped Steel.
• Finish: High-Luster Triple Chrome Plating.
• Bolt Pattern Compatibility: Wide-5 (5x205mm).
• Mounting Type: Friction fit via standard hubcap clips (clips not included).
• Unit of Sale: Sold Individually.
• Weight: Approximately 0.9 lbs.

PRO TIPS

1. Inspect Your Hubcap Clips and Rivets

Before installing your new Smoothie hubcaps, it is critical to inspect the condition of the spring clips on your wheels. Over decades of use, these clips can become brittle, bent, or lose their tension. If the clips are weak, your expensive new chrome cap could fly off the first time you hit a pothole. We recommend tensioning the clips slightly outward or replacing them entirely with a fresh set of rivets and clips if they show any signs of fatigue. A secure "snap" when the cap is applied is the only way to ensure it stays where it belongs.

2. Use Proper Installation Techniques

Never use a metal hammer or a standard mallet to install a Smoothie hubcap. Because the surface is perfectly smooth and polished, even a small impact can cause a noticeable "high-spot" or dent from the inside out. The best method is to use the heel of your palm to firmly pop the cap over the clips. If the clips are particularly tight, use a dedicated rubber mallet with a clean microfiber cloth draped over the cap to prevent scuffing. Always start by hooking the cap onto two clips and then applying pressure to the third to snap it into place.

3. Prevent Chrome Pitting and Corrosion

To keep that show-quality shine lasting for years, you must treat your chrome with a high-quality carnauba wax or a dedicated synthetic sealant immediately after installation. Brake dust is highly corrosive; if left to sit on the chrome surface, it will eventually cause "pitting" or small rust spots. Make it a habit to wipe down your hubcaps after long drives, and never use abrasive steel wool for cleaning. If you live in a coastal area or a region where road salt is used, regular cleaning and re-waxing are mandatory to preserve the deep-mirror finish of the EMPI chrome.