Trailing Arm Kit, 3X3 Arms, Type 2 CV Joints, for 002 & 091

OVERVIEW

Elevate your off-road performance to professional levels with the Appletree Automotive 3x3 Trailing Arm Kit, specifically engineered for those who demand uncompromising durability and massive suspension travel. This kit is the gold standard for Baja Bugs, sand rails, and custom tube chassis builds that utilize the robust 002 or 091 Bus transaxle. By moving the wheel centerline 3 inches back and 3 inches wider than stock dimensions, these arms provide a significantly increased footprint, which translates to superior high-speed stability and the ability to soak up massive whoops that would bottom out a standard IRS setup. Constructed from high-strength D.O.M. (Drawn Over Mandrel) steel tubing, these arms are built to withstand the brutal lateral forces and vertical impacts of desert racing and aggressive duning without bending or failing when you are miles from the nearest trailer.

This isn''t just a set of arms; it is a comprehensive, engineered suspension solution designed to eliminate the guesswork of mixing and matching drivetrain components. We have curated this kit to include high-performance chromoly axles and 28-spline stub axles that are specifically sized to bridge the gap between your Type 2 CV joints and the widened track width. By utilizing Type 2 (002) CV joints, you gain a significant increase in allowable operating angles compared to standard Type 1 joints, which is critical for achieving the long-travel geometry this kit is capable of. From the precision-machined inner and outer bearings to the heavy-duty axle seals and hardware, every component in this package is selected to ensure that your drivetrain is as bulletproof as your suspension. Whether you are building a weekend warrior or a competitive off-road machine, this kit provides the strength, clearance, and geometry needed to dominate the terrain.

FITMENT

This kit is designed for Volkswagen-based off-road vehicles equipped with IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) pivot points. While highly versatile, it is specifically optimized for the following applications:

• VW Beetle / Baja Bug: Requires IRS conversion if starting with a swing-axle pan.
• Sand Rails & Dune Buggies: Ideal for mid-engine or rear-engine tube chassis configurations.
• Transaxle Compatibility: Direct fit for Type 2 Bus 002 and 091 transaxles.
• Adaptability: Can be modified or shimmed to work with Type 1 transaxles using appropriate drive flanges.
• Custom Builds: Fits any custom off-road vehicle utilizing standard VW IRS pivot geometry.

SPECS

Every component in the TA3X3T2 kit is manufactured to rigorous tolerances to ensure a perfect fit and long-term reliability in harsh environments.

• Trailing Arm Material: Heavy-wall D.O.M. (Drawn Over Mandrel) Steel Tubing.
• Trailing Arm Offset: 3 Inches Extended (Rearward) / 3 Inches Widened (Outward).
• Axle Material: 4340 Chromoly Steel for maximum torsional strength.
• Axle Dimensions: 19 1/4 inches long, 28-spline configuration.
• CV Joint Type: Type 2 (002 Bus) 100mm diameter.
• Stub Axles: T1 to T2 Chromoly conversion stub axles.
• Bearings: Includes 2 Inner and 2 Outer high-load capacity bearings.
• Hardware: 24 High-tensile CV bolts included.
• Bushings: Durable IRS pivot bushings included for smooth articulation.
• Seal Kits: Complete rear axle seal kits with gaskets and O-rings.
• Finish: Raw steel (Ready for custom paint or powder coating).

PRO TIPS

1. Optimize Your CV Angles with Limit Straps

While the Type 2 CV joints included in this kit offer impressive angularity, it is absolutely vital to install high-quality limit straps to prevent the suspension from "drooping" too far. If the arms drop beyond the maximum operating angle of the CV joints (typically around 22-24 degrees for standard Type 2 joints), you risk binding the cage, which will lead to immediate failure of the CV or the axle itself. When setting your limit straps, always allow for a few degrees of safety margin to account for strap stretch during hard landings. Check the clearance at full droop by rotating the wheel by hand; if you feel any "notching" or resistance, shorten the limit strap until the rotation is silky smooth.

2. Use High-Quality Moly Grease and Proper Torque

Off-road environments are brutal on CV joints due to heat and constant articulation. When assembling this kit, use a high-concentration Molybdenum Disulfide (Moly) grease specifically designed for high-impact CV joints. Don''t skimp on the greasepack the joints thoroughly before sliding the boots on. Additionally, the 24 CV bolts provided should always be torqued to factory specifications in a star pattern. We highly recommend using a drop of medium-strength thread locker on each bolt and checking the torque after your first "shake-down" ride. Loose CV bolts are one of the most common causes of trailside breakdowns, often leading to sheared bolts or ruined drive flanges.

3. Precision Alignment for Predictable Handling

Installing 3x3 arms significantly changes your vehicle''s rear geometry. After installation, it is critical to perform a rear-end alignment to set your toe and camber. For off-road use, a slight amount of "toe-in" (approximately 1/16 to 1/8 inch) helps the vehicle track straight through soft sand and prevents the rear end from "searching" at high speeds. Because these arms are wider, your camber will naturally change as the suspension cycles. Ensure that your IRS pivot brackets are square and reinforced; even a slight misalignment at the pivot point is magnified at the tire due to the extended length of the 3x3 arm. Taking the time to square the rear end will prevent premature tire wear and ensure the car handles predictably in the corners.