Wiper Arm, Black, for Super Beetle, Right Side 73-79

OVERVIEW

Maintain your visibility and restore the factory-correct appearance of your late-model Volkswagen with this premium EMPI Right Side Black Wiper Arm. Specifically engineered for the unique requirements of the 1973 through 1979 Super Beetle, this wiper arm addresses the common issues of stripped splines, weakened tension springs, and weathered finishes that plague aging air-cooled classics. When you are behind the wheel of a Super Beetle, especially those equipped with the iconic curved windshield, having a wiper arm that maintains consistent pressure across the glass is paramount for safety during inclement weather. This arm is designed to provide the exact arc and downward force needed to ensure your wiper blades clear rain and debris efficiently, preventing the frustrating "streaking" or "chattering" often caused by worn-out original equipment.

Constructed with durability in mind, this wiper arm features a sleek satin black finish that perfectly matches the aesthetic of the late seventies VW lineup. As a master specialist, I can tell you that many enthusiasts overlook the wiper system until it fails, but upgrading to a fresh EMPI unit is one of the simplest ways to sharpen the look of your cowl area while significantly improving functional reliability. This unit is a direct replacement for OEM part number 133-955-410, ensuring a hassle-free installation process that aligns perfectly with your existing wiper motor pivot. Whether you are performing a full ground-up restoration or simply maintaining your daily driver, don''t settle for universal arms that never quite fit right; choose the component specifically tailored for the Super Beetle''s distinct geometry.

FITMENT

This wiper arm is designed specifically for the passenger (right) side of the following Volkswagen models:

• 1973-1979 VW Super Beetle (1303 Models)
• 1973-1979 VW Super Beetle Convertible
• Note: Specifically for vehicles with the curved windshield design.

SPECS

Detailed technical specifications for the EMPI 98-9557-0 Wiper Arm:

• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Part Number: 98-9557-0
• OEM Reference Number: 133-955-410
• Position: Right Side (Passenger Side)
• Material: High-Strength Pressed Steel
• Finish: Corrosion-Resistant Satin Black
• Attachment Style: Splined Shaft Mounting with Nut Cover Compatibility
• Application: Super Beetle Only (Does not fit Standard Beetle)

PRO TIPS

1. Clean Your Splines Before Installation

One of the most common mistakes I see in the shop is forcing a new wiper arm onto a corroded or dirty wiper motor pivot. Before you slide your new EMPI arm into place, take a small wire brush or a pick and clean out the splines on the motor shaft. If the old arm stripped out, it likely left aluminum or steel debris in those grooves. By ensuring the splines are clean and sharp, the new arm will "bite" correctly when you tighten the nut, preventing it from slipping and stripping the brand-new arm the first time you turn the wipers on in a heavy downpour.

2. Check Your Spring Tension and Blade Alignment

The beauty of a new wiper arm is the fresh internal tension spring. Over decades, the original springs lose their "memory," which is why old wipers often lift off the glass at highway speeds. When installing this arm, make sure the wiper blade sits parallel to the windshield cowl when in the parked position. If the arm seems to sit too high or low, don''t bend the arm; instead, remove the nut, lift the arm slightly off the splines, and rotate it one or two notches until the alignment is perfect. This ensures the motor doesn''t over-travel and hit the windshield gasket.

3. Don''t Forget the Matching Blade and Cap

To finish the job correctly and achieve that "show-room" look, I always recommend pairing this new arm with a fresh 11-inch or 15-inch wiper blade (depending on your specific year''s blade carrier style) and a new plastic pivot nut cover. If your old plastic cap is cracked or missing, moisture can sit on the mounting nut, leading to rust that makes future removal nearly impossible. A tiny dab of anti-seize on the threads of the wiper motor shaft before you install the nut will save you a massive headache five or ten years down the road when it comes time for the next replacement.