Steering Box Bracket, Fits Type 1 VW Steering Box

OVERVIEW

Elevate the aesthetic of your air-cooled chassis with the EMPI Polished Aluminum Steering Box Bracket. For many VW enthusiasts, the steering box is a forgotten component, often buried under decades of road grime and grease. However, on a show-quality Beetle, an open-wheeled sand rail, or a precision-built Baja Bug, every detail matters. This bracket replaces the drab, stamped-steel factory unit with a high-luster, mirror-polished aluminum piece that instantly transforms the front end of your vehicle. Whether you are running a stock beam or a narrowed performance setup, this bracket provides the secure clamping force required to keep your steering box indexed properly while adding a custom, high-end look that stands out at any car show or off-road meet.

Crafted with precision to ensure a perfect wrap around the standard Type 1 steering gear housing, this EMPI bracket is more than just a dress-up part. It is engineered from high-grade aluminum to provide a lightweight yet rigid mounting solution. The polished finish is designed to resist the elements, but it also serves as a perfect foundation for those who want to further polish it to a chrome-like shine. When you are building a car where the front beam is exposed, such as a Manx-style buggy or a tube-chassis rail, the steering box becomes a focal point. Don''t let a rusty, pitted factory clamp ruin your hard work when you can install this affordable, professional-grade upgrade in minutes.

FITMENT

This steering box bracket is designed for Type 1 based steering boxes. Please note it does not fit Super Beetle models with MacPherson strut suspension.

• VW Beetle (Standard): 1950 through 1977
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All models utilizing a stock or aftermarket Type 1 VW steering box
• Baja Bugs: All models using the standard torsion bar front beam

SPECS

• Material: High-quality cast aluminum
• Finish: Mirror-polished surface
• Application: Fits standard Type 1 VW steering boxes (Stock or Aftermarket)
• Part Number: AC750109 / EMPI 16-2501-0
• Weight: Approximately 0.34 lbs
• Installation: Direct bolt-on replacement for the factory steel clamp
• Design: Contoured internal diameter for maximum surface contact and grip

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Upgrade Your Hardware for a Complete Look

Since you are installing a beautiful polished aluminum bracket, you should avoid reusing your old, crusty, or rusted factory bolts. We highly recommend pairing this bracket with stainless steel or chrome-plated hardware. This not only prevents the "bleeding" of rust onto your new aluminum part but also ensures the entire steering assembly looks cohesive and professional. When installing, remember that aluminum is softer than steel; use a small amount of anti-seize on the bolt threads to prevent galling and ensure you can easily adjust the steering box position in the future.

Tip 2: Check Your Steering Coupler Simultaneously

Whenever you are working on the steering box bracket, you likely have the steering shaft partially accessible or the box loosened. This is the absolute best time to inspect your steering coupler, often called the "rag joint." If the rubber is cracked, oil-soaked, or showing signs of delamination, replace it immediately. A rigid, polished bracket won''t fix the "sloppy" steering feel caused by a failing coupler. Installing a fresh urethane or heavy-duty rubber coupler alongside this EMPI bracket will ensure your steering is as tight as it is attractive.

Tip 3: Maintenance of the Polished Finish

To keep this bracket looking its best, especially if it is exposed on a street-legal buggy or a show car, you should avoid using harsh caustic degreasers or acid-based wheel cleaners during your wash routine. These chemicals can cloud or "stain" the polished aluminum finish. Instead, use a mild automotive soap and periodically touch up the shine with a high-quality metal polish and a microfiber cloth. If you are using this on an off-road vehicle, a light coat of carnauba wax or a ceramic detailer can help mud and dirt slide off more easily during cleanup, preventing the abrasive grit from scratching the polished surface.