Throw Out Bearing Shaft, Fits Beetle & Ghia 71-72

OVERVIEW

When it comes to the heart of your Volkswagen''s drivetrain, the clutch release system is often the most overlooked yet critical component for a smooth driving experience. This heavy-duty throw-out bearing cross shaft is engineered specifically for the 1971 and 1972 model years, a unique period in VW history where the transmission internals saw significant transitions. Unlike standard replacement parts that may rely on weak factory press-fits, this IAP shaft features fully welded critical points. This robust construction ensures that the forks won''t twist or snap under the pressure of high-performance pressure plates or the constant fatigue of daily stop-and-go traffic. Whether you are restoring a showroom-quality Super Beetle or building a rugged weekend cruiser, this shaft provides the structural integrity needed to maintain precise clutch engagement and a consistent pedal feel.

The 17mm shaft diameter is the defining characteristic of this specific era of Type 1 and Type 3 transmissions. It serves as the bridge between your clutch cable and the throw-out bearing itself, translating your foot''s movement into the mechanical force required to disengage the engine from the transaxle. If you have noticed a "spongy" feel in your pedal or heard a clicking sound when depressing the clutch, your original shaft forks may be bending or cracking at the factory seams. Upgrading to this heavy-duty version not only restores the factory geometry but also "bulletproofs" the assembly against future failure. Designed to meet or exceed OEM 113-141-701E specifications, this component is a must-have for any engine-out service, ensuring you won''t have to pull the motor again just to fix a failed five-dollar weld on an inferior part.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle (Type 1): 1971 - 1972
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971 - 1972
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1971 - 1972
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Fastback, Squareback, Notchback): 1971 - 1972
• Custom Applications: Any VW-based sand rail or dune buggy utilizing a 1971-1972 17mm manual transaxle.

SPECS

• OEM Reference Number: 113-141-701E
• Shaft Diameter: 17mm Precision Ground Steel
• Material: High-Carbon Heavy-Duty Steel
• Construction Type: Fully welded forks for maximum torque resistance
• Compatibility: Designed for use with "Guided" style throw-out bearings
• Finish: Industrial anti-corrosion coating
• Weight: Approximately 0.91 lbs

PRO TIPS

1. Inspect Your Bushings and Clips

When replacing the throw-out bearing shaft, it is absolutely essential to inspect the brass or plastic bushings located in the bellhousing of the transmission. Over decades of use, these bushings wear into an oval shape, which causes the shaft to "chatter" or sit at an angle. This misalignment leads to premature wear on your clutch disc and pressure plate. We always recommend installing a fresh set of bushings and new throw-out bearing retaining clips during this installation. A small amount of high-temperature synthetic grease on the bushing contact points will ensure the shaft rotates effortlessly for years to come.

2. Verify the 17mm Diameter

The 1971 and 1972 model years are "crossover" years in the VW world. While most cars in this range used the 17mm shaft, some early 1970 models might have a 16mm shaft, and later 1973+ models moved to a 20mm shaft. Before finalizing your order, it is a master-tech best practice to use a digital caliper to verify your existing shaft diameter. If your transmission has been swapped with a later "IRS" style or an earlier "Swingaxle" gearbox from a different year, you may need a different SKU. Confirming that 17mm measurement now saves you the headache of an engine-pull delay later.

3. Check the Clutch Operating Arm Alignment

Once the new shaft is installed and the engine is back in the car, pay close attention to the angle of the clutch operating arm (the lever on the outside of the transaxle that the cable hooks into). The arm should sit at an angle that allows the cable to pull in a straight line without rubbing against the guide tube. If the shaft is installed correctly but the arm seems "off," check for cracks in the arm itself or wear in the splines. Always ensure the return spring is under the correct tension; a weak spring won''t fully return the heavy-duty shaft, leading to the throw-out bearing riding against the pressure plate, which generates heat and causes early bearing failure.