Wheel Cylinder, for Rear Beetle & Ghia 68-74, Premium, Each

OVERVIEW

When it is time to restore the stopping power of your classic air-cooled Volkswagen, you cannot afford to compromise on the quality of your hydraulic components. The Varga TRW Premium Rear Wheel Cylinder represents the gold standard for late-model Beetle and Ghia braking systems. Unlike budget-grade alternatives that often suffer from premature seal failure or poor casting tolerances, this premium unit is manufactured to exacting standards to ensure a perfect seal and consistent pressure distribution. Whether you are daily driving your Bug or preparing a Ghia for a weekend show, these cylinders provide the firm pedal feel and reliable deceleration that originally defined the VW driving experience. Choosing a TRW-branded Varga component means you are installing a part with a heritage of excellence, designed to withstand the heat and pressure of modern driving conditions while maintaining the original equipment geometry of your vintage vehicle.

The rear braking system on a Volkswagen is often overlooked, but it plays a critical role in vehicle stability and overall braking distance. This specific wheel cylinder is engineered for the 1968 and later models, featuring the correct bore size to maintain the hydraulic balance between the front and rear circuits. A leaking or seized wheel cylinder can lead to uneven braking, contaminated brake shoes, and a dangerously soft pedal. By upgrading to this premium version, you are investing in high-quality internal pistons and EPDM rubber seals that are resistant to the corrosive properties of brake fluid. Don''t settle for "good enough" when it comes to your safety; ensure your Volkswagen stops as well as it goes by using the best components available on the market today. This unit is sold individually, but it is always recommended to replace these in pairs to ensure even braking performance across the rear axle.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle (Sedan & Convertible): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• 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

SPECS

• Manufacturer: Varga / TRW Brand
• Part Number: 113-611-053BP
• Bore Diameter: 17.46mm (11/16 inch)
• Material: High-grade cast iron body for maximum durability
• Seal Material: Premium EPDM rubber for long-term fluid resistance
• Inlet Thread: M10x1.0 (Standard VW brake line fitting)
• Bleeder Screw: Included and pre-installed
• Dust Boots: High-density external rubber boots to prevent debris ingress
• Weight: Approximately 0.75 lbs per unit

PRO TIPS

1. Always Replace in Pairs and Inspect Your Hoses

When one rear wheel cylinder fails, the other is usually not far behind. To maintain a balanced hydraulic system and prevent the car from pulling to one side under braking, you should always replace both rear cylinders at the same time. While you have the drums off, take a close look at your flexible rubber brake hoses. If they appear cracked or feel "spongy," they have likely swollen internally, which can restrict fluid flow and cause the brakes to drag or fail to release. Replacing the cylinders and the hoses together ensures a completely refreshed and reliable rear braking circuit.

2. Master the Bleeding Sequence

Properly bleeding the air out of the lines is the most critical step in any brake job. For an air-cooled VW, always start at the wheel furthest from the master cylinder and work your way closer. This means starting at the Passenger Rear, then the Driver Rear, then the Passenger Front, and finally the Driver Front. Use a high-quality DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid and keep the master cylinder reservoir topped off throughout the process. If you allow the reservoir to run dry while bleeding, you will pull air back into the system and have to start the entire process over from the beginning.

3. Protect Your Brake Shoes from Contamination

If your old wheel cylinder was leaking, it is highly likely that your brake shoes are soaked in brake fluid. Do not attempt to "clean" brake fluid out of old shoes with brake cleaner; the friction material is porous and will absorb the fluid, leading to grabbing or permanent loss of friction. If there is any sign of fluid on the shoes, replace them along with the cylinders. Additionally, use a generous amount of brake cleaner to de-grease the inside of the brake drum and the backing plate before installing your new Varga cylinders to ensure no oily residue compromises your new setup.