Wiper Arm, Silver, for Beetle 70-72, Left Side

OVERVIEW

When it comes to restoring the classic aesthetic and functional reliability of your air-cooled Volkswagen, few components are as vital yet overlooked as the wiper system. This EMPI Silver Wiper Arm for the left side (driver''s side) of 1970 through 1972 Beetles is a precision-engineered reproduction designed to replace aging, rusted, or bent original units. Over decades of service, original wiper arms often lose their spring tension, leading to poor blade contact with the windshield, annoying streaks, and dangerous visibility issues during sudden downpours. By installing this high-quality silver arm, you aren''t just fixing a mechanical part; you are restoring the crisp, period-correct look that defined the early 1970s Bug. The silver finish provides that authentic factory appearance that stands out against the chrome and paint of your vintage VW, ensuring your restoration looks as good as it performs.

Crafted to meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications, this wiper arm features the correct mounting geometry and spring rate required for the curved glass of the 1970-1972 era. Whether you are daily driving your Beetle or preparing it for a local VW show, having a wiper arm that stays firmly planted against the glass at highway speeds is essential for safety. This arm is designed for a seamless fit on the left side of the vehicle, utilizing the standard spline mounting system found on the wiper motor linkage. It serves as a direct replacement for OEM part number 111-955-407F, making the installation process straightforward for both seasoned mechanics and weekend hobbyists. Don''t let a worn-out, faded wiper arm detract from your Beetle''s character or compromise your safety on the road; upgrade to this EMPI unit for a reliable, clean-sweeping performance every time.

FITMENT

This silver wiper arm is specifically designed for the following Volkswagen Type 1 applications:

• Volkswagen Beetle (Standard): 1970, 1971, 1972
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971, 1972
• Placement: Left Side (Driver''s Side on Left Hand Drive models)
• Note: Not compatible with early 1960s "screw-on" style shafts or later 1973-and-up black wiper systems.

SPECS

Detailed technical specifications for the EMPI 98-9552-0 Wiper Arm include:

• OEM Reference Number: 111-955-407F
• Material: High-grade stamped steel with a heavy-duty internal tension spring.
• Finish: Period-correct Silver (painted/coated for corrosion resistance).
• Attachment Style: Splined shaft mounting with a pivot-up base for easy blade replacement.
• Side Application: Left (Driver''s Side).
• Manufacturer: EMPI
• Weight: Approximately 0.3 lbs.
• Total Length: Optimized for factory-sized 11-inch or 12-inch wiper blades.

PRO TIPS

1. Clean the Splines Before Installation

Before you slide your new silver wiper arm onto the wiper motor shaft, take a moment to inspect the splines on the shaft itself. Over time, old aluminum or zinc from the previous arm can clog these grooves. Use a small wire brush or a dental pick to clear out any debris. This ensures that the new arm''s splines bite into the shaft correctly, preventing the "slipping" effect where the motor turns but the arm stays still. A tiny drop of anti-seize on the shaft can also make future removals much easier without compromising the grip of the mounting nut.

2. Check Your Wiper Park Position

When installing the new arm, don''t tighten the nut immediately. First, ensure your wiper motor is in the "park" position by cycling the wiper switch on and off once with the key in the ignition. Once the motor stops, place the arm on the splines so the blade sits roughly 1 to 1.5 inches above the lower windshield seal. This prevents the arm from hitting the cowl or the windshield trim when in use. Test the movement by hand or with a quick flick of the switch (ensure the glass is wet!) before final torquing to avoid scratching your glass or damaging the linkage.

3. Match the Finish for a Show-Quality Look

If you are replacing the left side wiper arm because it is broken or worn, it is highly recommended to replace the right side arm (EMPI Part 98-9553-0) at the same time. Silver finishes can vary slightly between manufacturers and batches; replacing both arms simultaneously ensures a perfectly matched look across your cowl. Furthermore, ensure you are using silver-framed wiper blades to maintain the 1970-1972 aesthetic. Using a modern black plastic blade on a vintage silver arm is a common "restoration faux pas" that can easily be avoided for a much cleaner, more professional appearance.