Swing Axle Rear Brake Drum, 5 on 205mm, Beetle & Ghia 58-67

OVERVIEW

When it comes to maintaining the safety and performance of your vintage Volkswagen, the rear braking system is often overlooked until it is too late. This high-quality Swing Axle Rear Brake Drum is specifically designed for the classic 5 on 205mm (Wide-5) bolt pattern, providing a reliable and authentic solution for your 1958-1967 Beetle or 1958-1966 Karmann Ghia. Manufactured with precision and durability in mind, this drum is cast from premium-grade iron to ensure maximum heat dissipation and structural integrity during heavy braking cycles. Whether you are cruising the coastline or navigating stop-and-go city traffic, having a fresh, perfectly round drum is essential for preventing brake fade and ensuring that your classic VW stops as intended every single time. Don''t settle for worn-out, resurfaced drums that are dangerously close to their maximum diameter limits when you can restore factory-spec performance with a brand-new component.

This EMPI-sourced brake drum is the gold standard for restorers and enthusiasts who demand a perfect fit without the headache of modifications. It features the correct M12 x 1.5 threaded lug holes, making it compatible with your original hardware or aftermarket Wide-5 wheels. Because the 1960s was a period of transition for Volkswagen engineering, verifying your axle typespecifically ensuring you have a swing axle setupis crucial before installation. Replacing your rear drums is one of the most effective ways to eliminate annoying pedal pulsations and "grabbing" sensations that occur when drums become warped or scored over decades of use. At Appletree Auto, we know that your air-cooled project deserves parts that meet or exceed original equipment standards, and this rear brake drum delivers exactly that, providing the peace of mind you need for your next road trip or car show.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle (Type 1): 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966
• Application Note: Fits Swing Axle models ONLY. Not for IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) conversions.

SPECS

• Part Number: 113-501-615D
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide-5)
• Thread Size: M12 x 1.5 Lug Holes
• Axle Configuration: Swing Axle
• Placement: Rear (Left or Right)
• Material: Heavy-Duty Cast Iron
• Weight: 11.5 lbs
• Finish: Raw Machined Surface

PRO TIPS

1. Inspect Your Rear Axle Seals and O-Rings

Whenever you remove your rear brake drums, it is the absolute best time to inspect your rear axle seal kits. On a swing axle VW, gear oil from the transaxle can often leak past a worn seal or a flattened O-ring, contaminating your brake shoes. If you see any oily residue inside the backing plate or on the back of the old drum, you must replace the seals and O-rings before installing this new drum. Even the best brake drum in the world won''t stop your car if the shoes are soaked in 80/90W gear oil!

2. Always Replace Drums and Shoes in Pairs

To ensure balanced braking and prevent the car from "pulling" to one side under heavy load, we strongly recommend replacing both rear drums and both sets of rear brake shoes at the same time. Over time, drums wear to different diameters, and shoes wear at different rates. By installing a fresh pair of drums, you ensure that the friction surface and heat dissipation properties are identical on both the left and right sides of the vehicle, providing a much smoother and safer driving experience.

3. Proper Lug Bolt Torque and Seating

Since these drums feature M12 x 1.5 threaded holes, it is vital to ensure your lug bolts are in good condition and have the correct "seat" (usually ball-seat for stock wheels or cone-seat for many aftermarket wheels). Never use an impact wrench to zip your lug bolts into a brand-new drum, as this can cross-thread the holes or cause uneven tension. Always start the bolts by hand to ensure they are threading correctly, and then use a calibrated torque wrench to tighten them in a star pattern to the factory specification of 7