Stock Running Boards, for All Years Aircooled Beetle

OVERVIEW

Restore your Volkswagen''s classic profile with these premium EMPI heavy-duty running boards. As any air-cooled enthusiast knows, the running boards are more than just a step; they are a vital design element that bridges the gap between the front and rear fenders, completing the iconic silhouette of the Type 1 Beetle. These boards are engineered to withstand the rigors of daily driving while providing a factory-fresh appearance that satisfies even the most discerning purist. Constructed from high-quality, thick-gauge steel and finished with a durable, slip-resistant black vinyl matting, they offer the perfect balance of period-correct aesthetics and modern structural durability. Whether you are performing a full ground-up restoration or simply replacing worn-out, rusted units that have seen better days, these running boards provide the structural integrity and clean lines your Bug deserves.

What sets these EMPI running boards apart is their "Heavy Duty" designation, ensuring they won''t flex or bow like inferior, thin-gauge alternatives often found on the market. They come complete with 16mm bright moldings, which are designed to match the styling of both early and late-model cars seamlessly. This universal compatibility makes them an essential upgrade for any Beetle owner looking for a hassle-free installation without worrying about year-specific trim widths. The black vinyl mat is textured for maximum grip and provides that authentic OEM look and feel that defines the air-cooled era. Sold as a pair, these boards are the quickest way to eliminate "running board sag" and give your air-cooled classic the support and style it had when it first rolled off the assembly line. At Appletree Automotive, we only stock parts that meet our rigorous standards for fitment and longevity, and these EMPI boards are no exception.

FITMENT

Standard Beetle (Type 1): 1946-1949 Split Window Beetle 1950-1952 Zwitter/Split Window Beetle 1953-1957 Oval Window Beetle 1958-1966 Early Beetle (1200/1300) 1967-1977 Late Beetle (1500/1600) Super Beetle (Type 1302/1303): 1971-1972 Super Beetle Sedan & Convertible 1973-1979 Super Beetle Sedan & Convertible

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-6831-B
• OEM Reference Number: 113-821-509MHD
• Material: Heavy-Duty Gauge Stamped Steel
• Finish: Black Vinyl Covering with Aluminum Trim
• Molding Size: 16mm Bright Polish Molding
• Quantity: Sold as a Pair (Left and Right Side)
• Weight: Approximately 8.1 lbs per board
• Installation: Bolt-on application using factory mounting points

PRO TIPS

1. Inspect Your Captive Nuts and Hardware

Before you attempt to bolt on your new running boards, it is absolutely critical to inspect the captive nuts inside the heater channels of your Beetle. Over decades, these threads can become packed with road grime, rust, or old undercoating. We highly recommend running a thread chaser or a tap through the mounting holes before installation to ensure the bolts thread in smoothly. Additionally, never reuse old, spindly, or rusted hardware. Use a fresh Running Board Hardware Kit with the correct wide-wafer washers to distribute the load across the steel flange. This prevents the steel from tearing and ensures a rigid, rattle-free fit that will last for years.

2. Achieve the Perfect Fender Alignment

One of the biggest mistakes builders make is tightening the running board bolts before the fenders are properly aligned. To get that seamless, factory look, start by loosely threading all the bolts into the heater channel and the single bolt that connects the board to the front and rear fenders. Once everything is "finger-tight," have an assistant apply light pressure to the board to pull it snug against the fender beads. Tighten the fender bolts first to ensure the gap is closed, then move to the heater channel bolts. This sequence prevents the board from pulling away from the fenders, which is a common cause of unsightly gaps and paint-chipping vibration.

3. Prevent Corrosion and Maintain the Finish

While these boards are heavy-duty, the area where the running board meets the heater channel is a notorious "moisture trap" for air-cooled Volkswagens. Before installation, we suggest applying a thin layer of anti-seize or a rust-inhibitive wax (like Cavity Wax) to the mounting flange of the board. This creates a barrier against water and salt that can get trapped between the board and the body. To keep the vinyl mats looking brand new, avoid using silicone-based "tire shine" products which can make the boards dangerously slippery. Instead, use a dedicated rubber and vinyl cleaner that leaves a matte finish, ensuring you have a safe, non-slip step every time you enter your Beetle.