Type 1 Replacement Drive Flange, Sold Each

OVERVIEW

When it comes to maintaining the structural integrity of your air-cooled Volkswagen''s drivetrain, the drive flange is a component that simply cannot be overlooked. This EMPI Type 1 Replacement Drive Flange is engineered to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, providing a seamless interface between your transaxle and the CV joints. Over decades of use, factory flanges often suffer from wallowed-out bolt holes, scored oil seal surfaces, or worn internal splines that can lead to excessive play and eventual drivetrain failure. By replacing your worn units with these high-quality forged steel flanges, you ensure that torque is transferred efficiently to the wheels without the vibration or fluid leakage commonly associated with aged, pitted components.

At Appletree Automotive, we understand that a restoration is only as good as the parts you install, which is why we offer this precision-machined drive flange as a reliable solution for your Type 1 IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) setup. Whether you are rebuilding a stock 1600cc daily driver or assembling a rugged off-road woods buggy, the mating surface of the flange must be perfectly smooth to maintain a proper seal against the transmission''s output shaft seal. This replacement unit features the correct 33mm CV joint mounting pattern and is designed for a perfect fit on the differential side gears. Sold individually, these flanges are an essential upgrade for any enthusiast looking to tighten up their rear end and eliminate the messy gear oil puddles caused by grooved or damaged original hardware.

FITMENT

This drive flange is designed specifically for Type 1 Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) transaxles. Please note it does not fit swing axle configurations.

• VW Beetle (Sedan & Convertible): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• VW Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973, 1974
• Custom Applications: Fits most Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Kit Cars utilizing a Type 1 IRS Volkswagen transaxle.

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 16-2298-0
• OEM Cross Reference: 113-517-283
• Material: Heavy-duty forged high-carbon steel
• Configuration: IRS (Independent Rear Suspension)
• CV Joint Size: Standard Type 1 (94mm Outer Diameter)
• Bolt Thread: Machined for standard 8mm CV bolts
• Finish: Natural machined steel with protective oil coating
• Quantity: Sold Each
• Weight: 1.75 lbs

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Inspect the Seal Surface and Replace the Seal

Whenever you have the drive flange removed from the transaxle, it is the absolute best time to replace your transmission output shaft seals. Even a brand-new flange can leak if the old seal is hardened or cracked. Before installation, lightly lubricate the polished neck of the new drive flange with a small amount of gear oil or assembly lube. This prevents a ''dry start'' where the friction of the new metal against the rubber seal could cause premature wear or heat damage before the gear oil has a chance to circulate. Always check the transaxle housing for any burrs that might snag the seal during installation.

Tip 2: Proper Torque and Center Bolt Sealing

Don''t just blast the center 12mm bolt (or nut, depending on your year) back on with an impact wrench. Over-tightening can strip the threads inside the differential side gear, while under-tightening can allow the flange to wobble and ruin the splines. Use a torque wrench to bring it to the factory specification of 44 ft-lbs. Additionally, many builders forget to put a small dab of RTV silicone on the splines or under the washer of the center bolt. Gear oil has a tendency to migrate through the splines and leak out of the center of the flange; a little sealant here ensures a bone-dry driveway.

Tip 3: Check Your CV Bolt Length and Security

When installing your CV joints onto the new flange, ensure you are using the correct length 8mm bolts. If the bolts are too long, they can bottom out or interfere with the transaxle housing; if they are too short, they won''t have enough thread engagement to hold the torque. We highly recommend using new Schnorr (serrated) lock washers and a drop of blue threadlocker on each bolt. Since these flanges are often used in high-vibration environments like off-roading, checking your CV bolt torque after the first 100 miles of driving is a standard practice that prevents expensive trail-side failures.