Stainless Fender Guard, Rear, Fits Beetle, Pair

OVERVIEW

When you''re cruising down the road in your classic air-cooled Beetle, the last thing you want to hear is the metallic "ping" of gravel kicking up against your fresh paint. The rear fenders on a Type 1 are notoriously vulnerable to road debris thrown from the front tires, making these EMPI Stainless Steel Fender Guards a mandatory upgrade for any serious restorer or daily driver. Not only do they provide a robust physical barrier against rock chips and abrasions, but they also serve as a quintessential "period-correct" accessory that instantly elevates the profile of your Volkswagen. These guards wrap perfectly around the leading edge of the rear fender, catching the brunt of the impact while adding a gleaming touch of brilliance that defines the vintage VW look. For those who appreciate the "California Look" or a traditional stock restoration, these guards are the perfect finishing touch to protect your investment.

Crafted from high-grade stainless steel, these guards are engineered to withstand the elements without the risk of rusting or pitting that often plagues lower-quality chrome-plated alternatives. Each guard is polished to a mirror-like finish, ensuring that your Bug looks just as good at a local car show as it does on a cross-country road trip. This kit is a complete solution, arriving as a pair for both the left and right rear fenders, and it includes the necessary plastic trim beading. This beading is crucial as it creates a soft interface between the stainless steel and your fender, preventing metal-on-metal contact and vibration-induced paint wear. Whether you are finishing a ground-up restoration or simply looking to preserve the integrity of your original paint, these EMPI guards offer the perfect blend of utility, durability, and timeless style.

FITMENT

This pair of rear fender guards is designed specifically for the Volkswagen Type 1 platform. Please verify your fender style before ordering, as these are intended for rear applications only.

• Volkswagen Standard Beetle: 1946 through 1977 (Rear Fenders)
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971 through 1979 (Rear Fenders)
• Fits: All Sedan and Convertible models within the above year ranges.
• Note: Not intended for Type 2 Bus, Type 3, or Karmann Ghia models.

SPECS

Manufactured by EMPI to meet strict quality standards, these fender guards feature the following technical specifications:

• Material: High-Quality Stainless Steel.
• Finish: High-Luster Mirror Polish.
• Quantity: Sold as a Pair (Left and Right).
• Trim Type: Black Plastic/Rubber Protective Beading included.
• Installation Hardware: Sheet metal screws included for secure mounting.
• Application: Rear Fenders only.
• Corrosion Resistance: Naturally rust-resistant due to stainless steel construction.
• Part Number: 00-6440-0.

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Protect the Paint Before Installation

Before you mount these guards, we highly recommend applying a thick coat of high-quality carnauba wax to the area of the fender that will be covered. Even with the protective plastic trim, moisture and fine dust can sometimes find their way behind the guard over time. A solid wax barrier ensures that the paint remains sealed and protected from any potential "chafing" or moisture entrapment. Additionally, make sure the fender surface is 100% clean and free of grit before you press the guard into place to avoid trapping scratching agents against your finish.

Tip 2: Use Masking Tape for Precision Drilling

Installing these guards requires drilling small pilot holes into your fenders. To prevent the drill bit from "walking" and scratching your paint, place a strip of blue painter''s tape over the area where you intend to drill. Hold the guard in place with a helper or a soft-jawed clamp, mark your holes directly onto the tape with a felt-tip pen, and then drill through the tape. This not only keeps your marks visible but also helps prevent the paint from chipping around the edges of the new hole. Always use a drill bit slightly smaller than the mounting screw for a tight, secure fit.

Tip 3: Maintenance for Lasting Shine

While stainless steel is incredibly durable and rust-resistant, it can still develop "tea staining" or surface contamination from road salt and environmental pollutants. To keep these guards looking like chrome, avoid using steel wool or abrasive pads, which can create micro-scratches that dull the finish. Instead, use a dedicated stainless steel polish or a fine metal polish and a microfiber towel once every few months. If you live in a coastal area or a region where roads are salted in the winter, a quick rinse with fresh water after driving will keep the guards looking brand new for decades.