Wheel Cap, EMPI Logo, Black/Silver, 43mm Set of 4

OVERVIEW

Elevate the aesthetic of your vintage Volkswagen with the iconic EMPI Wheel Cap Set. These black and silver 43mm caps feature the legendary EMPI globe logo, a symbol that has represented performance and style in the air-cooled community for decades. Whether you are finishing a ground-up restoration on a 1967 Beetle or putting the final touches on a custom beach-bound Manx-style dune buggy, these caps provide that professional, period-correct look that separates a standard build from a show-stopper. The high-contrast silver-on-black design offers a timeless appeal that complements nearly any wheel finish, from polished chrome to matte powder coat, ensuring your VW stands out at the next local meet or major vintage show.

Precision-engineered for a perfect fit, this set of four wheel caps is designed to handle the rigors of the road while maintaining its luster. We understand that in the world of air-cooled VWs, the details make the difference. These aren''t just covers; they are a statement of heritage. At Appletree Automotive, we know that finding the right hardware for your custom wheels can be a challenge, which is why we offer these EMPI-branded inserts as a complete set. They are the ideal replacement for weathered, missing, or plain caps, restoring the aggressive and sporty identity that EMPI has championed since the golden age of California car culture. Don''t settle for generic when you can run the genuine logo that defined an era of Volkswagen performance.

FITMENT

These 43mm caps are designed to fit a wide variety of aftermarket and EMPI-style wheels commonly found on air-cooled Volkswagen models, including:

• Type 1: Beetle, Bug, and Super Beetle (All Years)
• Type 2: Bus, Transporter, Kombi, and Microbus (1950-1979)
• Type 3: Fastback, Squareback, and Notchback
• Karmann Ghia: Coupe and Convertible (All Years)
• VW Thing: Type 181 Military-style vehicles
• Dune Buggies: Meyer''s Manx, Berry Mini T, and other fiberglass kit cars
• Baja Bugs: Custom off-road conversions
• Sand Rails: Custom tube-chassis off-roaders utilizing 43mm center openings

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-9664-0
• Quantity: Set of 4 Wheel Caps
• Diameter: 43mm (Approximately 1.7 inches)
• Color Scheme: Black Background with Silver EMPI Globe Logo
• Material: High-grade, weather-resistant composite with finished face
• Logo Style: Traditional EMPI "Globe" design
• Attachment Type: Pressure-fit / Adhesive-backed (depending on specific wheel application)

PRO TIPS

Surface Preparation is Key

Before installing your new EMPI wheel caps, it is vital to ensure the mounting surface is clinical-level clean. Use a high-quality wax and grease remover or simple rubbing alcohol to wipe down the center area of the wheel or the existing cap base. Even a microscopic layer of brake dust or road grime can prevent the adhesive from bonding permanently. If the surface is cold to the touch, use a heat gun or hair dryer to slightly warm the metal before application; this helps the adhesive "flow" into the pores of the wheel material for a bond that won''t fail at highway speeds or during high-pressure car washes.

The "Show-Level" Alignment Trick

If you want your VW to look like it belongs on a magazine cover, pay attention to the orientation of the logo. When installing the caps, align the bottom of the EMPI logo so it points directly toward the tire''s valve stem. Do this consistently on all four wheels. While it seems like a minor detail, it creates a symmetrical and professional appearance when the car is parked. Judges at high-end VW shows often look for this level of attention to detail, and it shows that you took the time to do the job right rather than just slapping parts on in a hurry.

Preserving the Finish

To keep the black and silver contrast looking sharp for years to come, avoid using "acid-based" wheel cleaners. Many aggressive modern wheel cleaners contain harsh chemicals designed to eat through heavy brake dust, but they can also cloud the finish on your EMPI logos or cause the silver paint to flake over time. Stick to pH-neutral car soap and a soft microfiber wash mitt. For an extra layer of protection, apply a small amount of high-quality synthetic car wax or a ceramic detail spray over the face of the caps. This creates a UV-resistant barrier that prevents the black background from fading under the harsh summer sun.