Stock Arm Rest Brackets, for Beetle 46-79, Ghia 56-74

OVERVIEW

When you''re deep into a classic Volkswagen interior restoration, it''s often the smallest components that cause the biggest headaches. These EMPI Stock Arm Rest Brackets are the definitive solution for air-cooled enthusiasts looking to restore the structural integrity and factory-correct feel of their cabin. Over the decades, original brackets are notorious for succumbing to moisture-induced oxidation, becoming bent from excessive force, or simply disappearing during the teardown phase of a project. These replacements are precision-engineered to replicate the exact factory geometry, ensuring that your armrests sit at the correct ergonomic angle. By providing a rock-solid mounting point, these brackets eliminate the annoying "floppy armrest" syndrome that plagues so many aging Beetles and Ghias, restoring that satisfying, solid feel every time you pull the door shut.

Quality is paramount when it comes to interior hardware, and EMPI has delivered a product that meets the rigorous demands of the VW community. Stamped from high-grade steel and finished with a durable coating to resist future corrosion, these brackets are designed to outlast the originals. Whether you are building a concours-level show car or a rugged daily driver, these brackets provide the necessary support to prevent your door panels from warping or tearing under the weight of the armrest. Sold as a pair, this kit allows you to refresh both the driver and passenger sides simultaneously, ensuring a uniform look and consistent functionality throughout your vehicle. Don''t settle for makeshift hardware or rusted vintage parts when you can install these robust, purpose-built brackets and elevate your interior to professional standards.

FITMENT

These armrest brackets are designed for a wide range of air-cooled Volkswagen models, utilizing the standard factory mounting patterns. Please verify your specific year and model below:

• VW Beetle (Type 1): 1946 - 1979 (Includes Standard and Super Beetle)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 - 1974
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961 - 1973
• VW Bus / Transporter (Type 2): 1950 - 1967 (Split Window models)

SPECS

Detailed technical specifications for the EMPI 00-4446-0 Arm Rest Brackets:

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-4446-0
• Material: Heavy-duty stamped steel
• Finish: Corrosion-resistant zinc or black oxide coating
• Quantity: Sold as a pair (Left and Right sides)
• Mounting Type: Direct bolt-on replacement for factory hardware
• Total Components: 2 Brackets (Note: Brackets only, mounting screws and armrests sold separately)
• Weight: Approximately 0.25 lbs per pair

PRO TIPS

1. Inspect the Door Shell Substructure

Before installing your new brackets, take a close look at the captive nuts or mounting holes inside the door shell. Years of vibration and pulling on the armrest can sometimes fatigue the sheet metal or strip the threads. If the metal is thin or cracked, we recommend using a small reinforcement plate or "fender washer" on the backside where possible, or performing a quick spot weld to ensure the new brackets have a perfectly rigid foundation. A bracket is only as strong as the metal it is bolted to!

2. Hardware and Plastic Insert Refresh

These brackets are the "bones" of your armrest assembly, but they require the correct fasteners to function safely. If your original screws are rusty or the heads are stripped, do not reuse them. Additionally, many later-model Beetles use plastic expansion inserts in the door frame that these brackets screw into. If those inserts are brittle or cracked, replace them at the same time as the brackets. Using fresh hardware ensures a tight fit and prevents the brackets from backing out over time due to road vibration.

3. Perfect Alignment Before Final Torque

To achieve a professional-grade fit where the armrest sits perfectly flush against the door card, do not tighten the bracket screws all the way down initially. Mount the brackets loosely, then "dry-fit" the armrest onto them. Shift the brackets slightly until the armrest aligns perfectly with the pre-cut holes in your door panel. Once the alignment is centered and the armrest looks level, remove the armrest, torque the bracket screws down firmly, and then do your final armrest installation. This prevents tension on the vinyl door skin and prevents premature tearing around the mounting area.