Sprintstar, Riviera & 914 Replacement wheel cap, Tall

OVERVIEW

Elevate the aesthetic of your vintage ride with the EMPI Sprintstar, Riviera, and 914 Tall Replacement Wheel Cap. As any seasoned air-cooled enthusiast knows, the wheels are the soul of a Volkswagen project, and nothing kills a period-correct look faster than a missing or dented center cap. These premium chrome-plated caps are designed specifically for those iconic EMPI-style wheels that have defined the VW scene for decades. Featuring the legendary EMPI logo, these caps provide the perfect finishing touch, ensuring your Beetle, Karmann Ghia, or Porsche 914 looks just as sharp at a local car show as it does cruising down the coastal highway. The high-luster chrome finish is engineered to resist the elements, providing a mirror-like shine that complements both polished and painted wheel finishes.

What sets this specific model apart is its Tall profile design. One of the most common frustrations when installing aftermarket wheels on a classic VW is clearance issues with the front grease caps or the protruding snouts of heavy-duty brake drums and disc brake rotors. Standard flat caps often bottom out against the hub, leading to rattling or the cap popping off entirely while driving. This tall version provides that crucial extra depth needed to clear the hardware underneath without compromise. Whether you are running a stock front end or an upgraded disc brake conversion, these caps offer a secure fit and a seamless look. Sold individually, they are the ideal solution for replacing a single damaged unit or refreshing an entire set of wheels to bring back that showroom-quality brilliance.

FITMENT

This replacement wheel cap is designed to fit specific EMPI and aftermarket wheel styles including:

• EMPI Sprintstar Wheels: Both steel and alloy versions.
• Riviera Wheels: The classic 8-spoke design popular on Buses and Beetles.
• Porsche 914 Replica Wheels: Specifically the 4-lug versions used on VW conversions.
• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle and Bug models (all years equipped with compatible wheels).
• Volkswagen Type 14: Karmann Ghia.
• Volkswagen Type 3: Squareback, Fastback, and Notchback.
• Porsche 914: Original 4-cylinder models utilizing aftermarket EMPI-style wheels.

SPECS

Technical specifications for the EMPI 10-1106-0 Tall Wheel Cap:

• Part Number: 10-1106-0
• Profile: Tall / Deep Dish version for maximum hub clearance.
• Material: Heavy-duty stamped steel construction.
• Finish: High-quality triple chrome plating.
• Logo: Features the classic EMPI shield logo in the center.
• Inner Diameter: Designed to snap into standard Sprintstar/Riviera center bores.
• Application: Compatible with both front and rear wheels.
• Quantity: Sold individually (Each).

PRO TIPS

Pro Tip 1: Measuring for Hub Clearance. Before installation, always check the protrusion of your front grease caps. If you have recently installed a disc brake conversion kit or heavy-duty drums, the hub snout may sit further out than the factory original. These tall caps are specifically designed to solve this issue, but it is still wise to do a dry fit. If the cap feels like it is "springing" back or won''t seat flush against the wheel face, do not force it. Ensure the grease cap is fully seated on the spindle first. This tall design usually provides more than enough room for even the most aggressive brake setups.

Pro Tip 2: Protecting the Chrome During Installation. To avoid scratching or denting your brand-new chrome caps, never hit them directly with a metal hammer. We recommend using a rubber mallet or, better yet, placing a thick micro-fiber towel over the cap and using the palm of your hand to snap it into place. If the fit is exceptionally tight, you can apply a very light film of multi-purpose grease to the inner tension ring of the cap. This helps it slide into the wheel bore smoothly and also acts as a minor corrosion barrier between the cap and the wheel.

Pro Tip 3: Long-Term Maintenance and Corrosion Prevention. Chrome in the wheel area is constantly bombarded by brake dust, road salt, and moisture. To keep these caps looking like new for years to come, treat them with a high-quality automotive wax or a dedicated metal sealant immediately after installation. Brake dust is acidic and can pit the chrome if left to sit. When washing your car, use a pH-neutral wheel cleaner and avoid harsh acid-based cleaners that can dull the finish. Regular wiping with a soft cloth will prevent the buildup that leads to "rust freckles" on the chrome surface.