Trailing Arm Kit, 3X3 Arms, 930 CV Joints, for 002 Bus Trans

OVERVIEW

Transform your off-road machine into a high-performance desert or woods conqueror with the Appletree Automotive Complete 3x3 Trailing Arm Kit. Specifically engineered for enthusiasts running the rugged 002 Bus Transmission, this kit provides the essential geometry and strength needed to handle extreme terrain. The 3x3 designation means these arms are 3 inches longer and 3 inches wider than stock, significantly increasing your wheelbase and track width. This adjustment doesn''t just look aggressive; it provides a massive leap in stability, allowing for significantly more wheel travel and a much smoother ride over high-speed whoops and technical rock sections. By moving the hub further back and out, you create a larger footprint that keeps your VW-based buggy or Baja Bug planted when the trail gets nasty.

At the heart of this heavy-duty suspension package is the legendary 930 CV joint system. Standard Type 1 or even Type 2 CV joints often fail when pushed to the high angles required by long-travel suspension, but the 930 (Porsche-style) joints included here are designed to operate at much steeper angles without binding or overheating. We have bundled everything you need to complete the conversion, from the D.O.M. steel trailing arms to the specialized 28-spline axles and the necessary 002-to-930 drive flanges. This is a comprehensive, pro-level solution that eliminates the guesswork of sourcing individual components, ensuring that every bearing, seal, and bolt is perfectly matched for a seamless installation and bulletproof reliability in the dirt.

FITMENT

This kit is designed for vehicles utilizing an IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) configuration and a Type 2 002 Bus Transmission. It is a popular upgrade for the following applications:

• VW Beetle & Super Beetle: Custom IRS-equipped models or those converted for off-road use.
• VW Baja Bugs: Ideal for high-clearance off-road builds requiring maximum travel.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Perfect for tube-chassis cars, Manx-style buggies, and woods buggies.
• Street Rods & Kit Cars: Custom applications utilizing a VW rear torsion housing with a 002 Bus transaxle.
• Note: Requires the use of a 002 Bus Transmission (3-rib or 5-rib) to match the included drive flanges.

SPECS

Every component in this kit is selected for its durability and precision fitment. Here are the technical specifications:

• Trailing Arms: 1 pair of 3x3 (3 inches longer, 3 inches wider) constructed from high-strength D.O.M. steel tubing.
• Axles: 1 pair of 19 1/4 inch custom-length 28-spline axles.
• Drive Flanges: 002 Transmission to 930 CV conversion flanges.
• Stub Axles: T1 to 930 heavy-duty stub axles.
• CV Joints: 4 genuine 930 style high-angle CV joints.
• CV Boots: 4 930-specific boot kits with high-temp grease and clamps.
• Hardware: 24 high-tensile CV bolts for secure mounting.
• Bearings: 2 Inner and 2 Outer heavy-duty rear wheel bearings.
• Seals & Bushings: Includes 2 rear axle seal kits, 2 additional rear axle seals, and 1 pair of IRS pivot bushings.
• Accessories: 1 pair of axle housing end caps and an IRS axle spacer kit for precise alignment.
• Spline Count: 28 Spline (Standard for 930 components).

PRO TIPS

1. Prioritize CV Joint Clocking and Lubrication

When assembling your 930 CV joints, cleanliness is paramount. Use a high-quality Moly-disulfide grease specifically rated for high-angle CV joints. Avoid the temptation to overstuff the boots; too much grease can cause the boot to balloon and fail at high speeds due to centrifugal force. Additionally, ensure you ''clock'' the joints correctlythe inner and outer races should be aligned so that the balls are offset. This allows for maximum angularity without the cage binding. Before your first trip, rotate the suspension through its full range of motion by hand to ensure there is no mechanical interference or binding at full droop or full compression.

2. Install Limit Straps to Protect Your Investment

While the 3x3 arms and 930 CVs are designed for massive travel, every mechanical system has a limit. You should never allow your shock absorbers or the CV joints themselves to act as the "stop" for your suspension travel at full droop. We strongly recommend installing adjustable limit straps. Set the straps to stop the downward travel approximately 1 to 2 degrees before the CV joints reach their maximum operating angle. This prevents the CV cages from shattering and saves your shock seals from being blown out by the weight of the trailing arm and tire assembly during jumps or hard drops.

3. Verify Pivot Alignment and Bushing Preload

When installing the IRS pivot bushings into your torsion housing, ensure the surfaces are free of rust and debris. Use a liberal amount of silicone-based grease on the bushings to prevent the dreaded "VW squeak" and to ensure smooth movement. Once the trailing arms are bolted in, check that they move freely through their arc before attaching the shocks or axles. If you find the arms are difficult to move, check for any twisting in the torsion housing or debris in the pivot point. Proper alignment here ensures that your axles remain centered within the CV joints, reducing heat buildup and extending the life of your 28-spline axles and 002 drive flanges.