Sway Bar Bushing Kit, for Super Beetle 71-73, Bugpack

OVERVIEW

Precision handling and suspension stability are the hallmarks of a well-tuned Volkswagen, and the 1971 to 1973 Super Beetle is no exception. These early Super Beetles utilize a unique MacPherson strut front suspension that is significantly more sensitive to bushing wear than the traditional torsion beam front ends found on standard Beetles. The BUGPACK Sway Bar Bushing Kit is engineered to replace your tired, compressed, and oil-soaked factory rubber bushings with high-density Prothane urethane. Unlike OEM rubber that flexes and deflects under cornering loads, these urethane bushings maintain the alignment of your sway bar, ensuring that every bit of torsional force is translated into reduced body roll and improved tire contact patches. Whether you are navigating tight canyon curves or simply looking for a more "planted" feel during highway lane changes, this kit provides the structural integrity needed to modernize your classic VW''s road manners.

Specifically designed for the 3/4-inch (19mm) heavy-duty sway bars, this kit is the ideal upgrade for enthusiasts who have moved beyond the stock diameter bar or are looking to firm up a performance aftermarket setup. The BUGPACK B650031 kit includes four precision-molded pieces that fit the specific mounting points of the 1971-1973 Super Beetle chassis. Because urethane is virtually impervious to road salt, oil, and ozone, these bushings will not rot or crack over time like traditional rubber components. By installing these high-performance bushings, you are effectively eliminating the "mushy" steering response that plagues many vintage Super Beetles. This is a critical component for any owner looking to solve the notorious "Super Beetle shimmy" or anyone who wants their air-cooled investment to handle with the sharpness and predictability of a much newer vehicle.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Super Beetle (1302): 1971-1972
• Volkswagen Super Beetle (1303): 1973
• Volkswagen Super Beetle Convertible: 1971-1973
• Note: Fits Super Beetle models with the early-style 2-bolt control arm mounting only.
• Note: Designed specifically for use with 3/4 inch (19mm) diameter sway bars.

SPECS

• Brand: BUGPACK
• Part Number: B650031
• Material: High-Durometer Prothane Urethane
• Sway Bar Diameter: 3/4 Inch (19mm)
• Quantity: 4-Piece Kit
• Color: Performance Red
• Application: Front Sway Bar / Anti-Roll Bar
• Resistances: Resistant to oil, grease, road salt, and UV degradation

PRO TIPS

1. Use Proper Lubrication to Prevent Squeaks

High-performance urethane bushings are much firmer than rubber, which is great for handling but can lead to annoying "squeaking" sounds if installed dry. When installing these BUGPACK bushings, always apply a generous coating of a high-quality, synthetic water-resistant grease (such as a silicone or molybdenum-based lubricant) to the inner diameter where the bushing contacts the sway bar. Avoid using petroleum-based greases, as they can eventually break down certain synthetic materials. Properly lubricating these contact points ensures a silent operation and reduces friction, allowing the sway bar to pivot smoothly through its intended range of motion.

2. Verify Your Sway Bar Diameter Before Ordering

While this kit is a perfect fit for many performance setups, it is crucial to measure your actual sway bar diameter with a pair of calipers before installation. Many 1971-1973 Super Beetles left the factory with smaller diameter bars, and many owners have upgraded to various aftermarket sizes over the last 50 years. This kit is specifically bored for a 3/4-inch (19mm) bar. If you attempt to install these on a stock 12mm or 15mm bar, the fit will be loose, and the sway bar will not function correctly. Conversely, trying to force them onto a 7/8-inch bar will cause the urethane to bind. A quick check with a digital caliper ensures you have the right part for your specific suspension configuration.

3. Inspect Your Control Arm Bushings Simultaneously

The Super Beetle front end is a complex system where every component relies on the other to maintain stability. If you are replacing your sway bar bushings to cure a vibration or "shimmy," take the time to inspect your lower control arm bushings and the strut top mounts while the vehicle is lifted. Because the sway bar on a Super Beetle actually acts as a longitudinal locator for the control arm, any play in the sway bar bushings is magnified by wear in the control arm bushings. Replacing the sway bar bushings with this BUGPACK kit is a fantastic first step, but for the ultimate "new car" feel, we recommend verifying that all rubber-to-metal interfaces in the MacPherson assembly are in good condition.